168 - A Regina Basha 18-21K Yellow Gold and Pearl Flower Brooch, Iraq, Early 20th Century

A Regina Basha 18-21K Yellow Gold and Pearl Flower Brooch, Iraq, Early 20th Century Designed as a flower and interwoven with small pearls. The pin is 14K gold and the clasp mechanism is gilt. Gold acid tested. Total weight: 9.75 gr; length: 60 mm Notes: Regina Basha, a Jewish jewelry designer, was active in Basra and Baghdad during the first half of the 20th century. Her clients, members of the social elite, would make their purchases over a cup of tea (stikan chai) in the salon of her home in Basra. Her jewelry reveals a distinctive style, reflecting the influence of Indian goldsmithing, with which she became acquainted early in her career, and of the Armenian and French jewelry traditions she encountered during visits to Beirut and Damascus, alongside jewelry designs prevalent in Iraq. A similar item was exhibited in an exhibition of the artist's work held at the Babylonian Jewry Heritage Center. Condition: For a condition report, please contact office@alma.auction. All items are sold as is, and buyers are responsible for checking condition before bidding. The absence of condition notes does not imply good condition.