An ivory and lapis lazuli pendant possibly by Dagobert Peche, Wiener Werkstätte, first quarter 20th century, the ivory carved to depict an openwork floral and foliate spray, with three circular lapis lazuli cabochon accents, applied to a silver reverse, the whole enclosed within a modelled and beaded silver frame, suspended from an associated fancy-link chain, reverse stamped‘HANDBETRIEBEN’ (translating as ‘handmade’) and ‘900’, pendant length 6.3cm, chain 50cm. £300-£500

Dagobert Peche (1887-1923) was an Austrian artist and jewellery designer. Having initially trained as an architect, Peche joined the Wiener Werkstätte in 1915. He was a prolific designer in all media and went on to produce the most jewellery designs for the firm, second only to Josef Hoffmann. Peche’s designs are noted for their sculptural qualities, often based on mythological themes or featuring an abundance of foliage and floral motifs, “threatening to spill out of their allotted space”. During the war, material restrictions inspired the sculptor and master craftsman Friedrich Nerold to render many of Peche’s designs in ivory. Many jewels produced by the Wiener Werkstätte during this time also feature collet-set cabochon gemstones, as seen here, not only to further the sculptural qualities of the piece but also enhance the colour palette used.


Literature: Staggs, Janis, Ed., Wiener Werkstätte Jewelry. (Neue Galerie: Museum for German and Austrian Art.) Germany, Hatje Cantz Verlag, 2008.


Please note ivory is covered by CITES legislation and may be subject to import/export and trade restrictions. Please be aware that it is the buyer’s responsibility to arrange any CITES export license for their purchases. More information can be found at www.cites.org.