212 - BAUGRAND, attributed to

BAUGRAND, attributed to A large brooch in silver (800) and 18k gold (750), featuring a stylized bee entirely adorned with antique-cut cushion-shaped diamonds of various sizes, including two larger ones. The detachable pin originally allowed the brooch to be worn in different ways using various attachments. Total diamond weight: approximately 10 carats. Dated to the mid-19th century. Gross weight: 24.10 g. Dimensions: 7.5 x 4 cm. In the 19th century, the bee became an important motif in European jewelry, which was already marked by naturalistic influences. Above all, it symbolizes hard work, perseverance, and social organization. Its ceaseless activity also evokes wealth and prosperity. The bee is also associated with royalty and power, particularly since the Napoleonic era, when it became the imperial emblem. While the subject was very much in vogue at the time, the craftsmanship also attests to the high level of technical skill in jewelry-making during that era. The back of our brooch also features meticulous workmanship, the style of which is characteristic of the Baugrand house.