Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu

An early 20th century pearl, enamel and gem set circular wasp brooch/pendant, the wasp with baroque pearl abdomen, rose-cut diamond striped thorax, cabochon ruby eye and plique-à-jour enamel wings, seated on a branch with enamel leaves and cultured pearl bud, the whole within a hoop frame set with alternate mixed-cut rubies and rose-cut diamonds, the reverse showing the wasp also realistically engraved, mounted in yellow gold, diameter 30mm. £600-£800

Inspired by nature and naturalism, Art Nouveau jewellery typically incorporates themes of birds and insects, with peacocks, dragonflies and butterflies being recurrent subjects. The subject of the humble wasp was taken to new heights by René Lalique, the ground-breaking French jewellery designer and one of the foremost Art Nouveau craftsmen, whose exquisite designs have become synonymous with the Art Nouveau style.