Twenty three years after the historic auction of ’The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor’, twenty pieces from this sale return to auction at Sotheby’s this November. The collection features important jewels illustrating the exquisite taste of the Duke and Duchess which also memorialise key events in their relationship.
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| Onyx and Diamond Panther bracelet, Flamingo Clip |
Many of the jewels were made by Cartier, two specifically under the guidance of Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s High Jewellery Director: the Onyx and Diamond Panther bracelet designed in 1952, is one of the finest examples of the ’great cats’ jewels of which the Duchess was an avid collector. And, the exotic Flamingo Clip, with sapphires, emeralds and rubies, from 1940.
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| Gold and Gem-set Cigarette case, Diamond bracelet |
Many of the jewels are highly personal with their intimate inscriptions. The Gold and Gem-set Cigarette case, by Cartier, is inscribed ’David from Wallis Christmas 1935’. Its lid is engraved with a map of Europe charting three holidays from 1934-36, each location along the enamelled route is marked with a gemstone. Another precious jewel is the Diamond bracelet by Cartier, supporting nine gem-set Latin crosses, each marking significant events during the years 1934-44. The Diamond dress suite by Cartier, 1935, features the initials W and E and inscriptions, including ’Hold Tight’ - a phrase often appearing in their pre-marriage correspondence. There are two Gold and Diamond Néccessaire du Soir by Cartier, both used by the Duchess at important functions and balls.
The collection also comprises silver and gold accessories, pocket watches and medals from the 1987 sale and previously the property of the Duke of Windsor.
