|
||
CoroCraft Sterling Vermeil, Diamond, Ruby & Enamel Squirrel Fur Clip NWS 6-1421 ~ A-DOR-A-BLE! This gray squirrel is perched on the branch of a flowering tree, eating a nut from the tip of a twig. The amount of handwork on this piece is just astounding. I can count 8 different colors of enamel, all applied by hand. Each individual brush stroke can be seen, the details of which make his fur look real. By the way, I could NOT get my camera to cooperate this morning. His tummy is not green, as it may look in the photos,... it's a pale yellow, with ever-so-light streaks of pale gray enamel on top of the yellow. ~ Black enamel was also applied by hand for emphasis around his eyes, ears, nose, fingers and toes, haunches and tail. ~ While his eyes are denoted with 2 faceted, faux rubies, his head and tail are studded with pavé-set, faux diamonds. The tree branch that he sits on is also covered with these faceted crystals, and so is the curling twig that he's nibbling from. ~ Three large, faceted faux ruby marquises form the flower of the tree. No detail has been spared! Well, certainly! It was designed by Adolph Katz, Coro's most famous designer. ~ As collector's know, during World War II, costume jewelry designers were obliged to use solid sterling silver for their jewelry, as all other metals had been restricted for the war effort. This adorable squirrel fur clip has been plated with a soft gold vermeil. ~ He measures 3.25" high and 1.5" wide. ~ Signed on the reverse "Coro Craft", and "STERLING". c. 1943, in excellent vintage condition, no repairs, all original stones. This is a famous piece, as precious as can be! Research: Featured in the book, American Costume Jewelry, by Brunialti & Brunialti, p. 79 & 81, rated 5 stars, their highest rating of all! This clip is part of a series. See also the Brunialtis' book, American Costume Jewelry, p. 73 & 75 for matching elephant and gazelle. Price = $995.00 a-c 2, clips Who was Coro? For 16 neat ideas on how to use clips, click here! |
