Signed Gariod Gautrait Antique Bracelet 18k Gold Sapphire Diamond Enamel (6132)

Antique Victorian Napoleon III bracelet. 18k yellow gold, sapphires, diamonds, enamel. Made by Lucien Gautrait for Leon Gariod in Paris, circa 1880-1890.

Measurements: 7 1/4 inches (18.5cm) long. Weighs 33.2 grams.

Description: Naturalistic theme with foliage and flowers in gold forming distinctly shaped links and connecting them in swags and ribbons. The links are alternating large curved ovals and smaller squares. The ovals have perpendicularly placed navette / marquise shaped blue sapphires set in beaded gold mounts with white enamel borders around them. At either pointed end of the sapphires are small rose-cut diamonds. The white ovals are surrounded by parallel borders of laurel leaves and then flowers, parallel ovals enameled in white and gold highlights. Large open spaces between the gold metal areas. Very rich and imaginative design. The workmanship is of the highest quality. Lucien Gautrait worked for both Leon Gariod and Henri Vever. Secure tongue in groove clasp. A similar bracelet by Gautrait for Gariod is shown on page 213 of the book Understanding Jewellery by David Bennett & Daniela Mascetti, who tell us that it shows the influence of French ormolu furniture mounts of the second half of the 18th century. Other items of jewelry similar in style by the same maker can be seen on the internet commanding prices from $13000 to $36000.-

Marks: The tongue of the clasp is hallmarked with both the French eagle head mark for 18k gold and the mark of Leon Gariod, which is a lozenge with LG initials attached to a horn-shaped device.

Condition: good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.