Carved Jade & Diamond 'Ming Series' Horse Brooch, Trifari Masterpiece

NWS 8-1378

~ The grace and beauty of this brooch is incomparable. Designed by Trifari's top designer from the 19340's to the 1960's, Alfred Philippe, this gorgeous horse comes from Trifari's "Ming Series".

~ From "Women's Wear Daily", September 8, 1942, comes this quote: "A Chinese series, 'Ming' leads off the spring jewelry collection at Trifari, Krussman & Fishel, Inc.... Large, flat pieces of simulated jade are set in black and red enamel, set off with rhinestone paving, to make such Oriental figures as mandolins, bats, daggers and pagodas".

~  This exotic horse brooch has a saddle of mottled glass in green and pale green colors. The glass has been carved into flowers, buds, leaves and vines. The horn and back of the saddle are depicted with 2 gold knobs, which also act as prongs.

~ This horse is in full regalia, fit for an emperor. Even the harness has diamonds dripping from its  straps. The base metal has been thickly plated in gold, while the body of the horse is of red enamel.

~ Portions of the mane, the forelock, the hooves and the harness are set with tiny, faceted, faux diamonds. These crystals have been pavé-set into thickly plated  rhodium metal, which forms a perfect background for the brilliant stones. Other details of the horse are outlined in gold, such as the decorative swirls on his body.

~  This magnificent brooch measure 2.25" wide and   2.15" high.

~ Signed "Trifari" with the crown logo above the "T". Also marked "PAT.PEND." which means that this was an early issue of Trifari's Ming Horse. Those that were made after February, 1942, would have been marked with the patent number "131,428" (as shown above).

c. 1940, in excellent, near mint condition, minor wear to gold plating on reverse. 2 stones replaced. A masterpiece, and a once in a lifetime find.

Research: A Tribute To America, Costume Jewelry 1935-1950, by Brunialti & Brunialti, p. 118-119. American Costume Jewelry, by Brunialti & Brunialti, p. 95, 115-118. This Ming Horse is rated 5 stars, their highest rating.

Price =  $1,995.00 q-z2, b 2, masterpieces

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