Rare 1942 Trifari 'Ming Dragon' Alfred Philippe
Updated September 5, 2026
| Lot number | 4909 |
| Auction | Vintage Jewelry, Watches, Sterling & Collectibles |
| Date | September 17, 2026 at 9:00 PM EDT |
| Auction house | ZODIAC AUCTION AND ESTATE SERVICES |
| Location | Bradenton, Florida |
Rare 1942 Trifari “Ming Dragon” brooch designed by Alfred Philippe, featuring an elaborate Chinese-inspired dragon design with a carved green simulated-jade belly, clear rhinestone accents, and remnants of its original red enamel decoration. The reverse is stamped “TRIFARI” and “PAT. PEND.” This design is a documented book piece, pictured and identified as T146 “Ming Dragon,” Trifari 1942, on page 120 of American Costume Jewelry: Art & Industry 1935–1950, Volume 2 by Roberto Brunialti and Carla Brunialti. The reference identifies the piece as manufactured by Trifari, Krussman & Fishel, designed by Alfred Philippe, and associated with U.S. Design Patent No. 131,426, filed January 7, 1942 and patented February 17, 1942. Reference: Roberto Brunialti & Carla Brunialti, American Costume Jewelry: Art & Industry 1935–1950, Volume 2, p. 120, T146 “Ming Dragon.”
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