French 1950s 18K Blackamoor Enamel, Pearl and...

Updated September 22, 2026

Diamond Brooch. <br><br>7.0*2.5cm Wt:19.3g<br><br>"Moretti" (also commonly known as Blackamoor, referring to the Moors) has long been a popular motif in jewellery. Blackamoor jewellery originated among European nobility. At that time, Southern Italy faced invasions by the Moors, and local inhabitants wore ornaments depicting Moorish heads to signal their stance, hoping to avoid attack. This tradition gradually spread across Europe, and the Moorish head became a talisman symbolizing formidable protective power. Blackamoor figures are typically male, portrayed wearing turbans richly set with jewels and gold leaf. Their bodies are usually carved from ebony or painted black to create a striking contrast against bright adornments. Most examples depict only the head, or head and shoulders, facing the viewer in a symmetrical pose. This particular Blackamoor departs from conventional designs: it is a full-figure holding a sceptre, eschewing colourful gemstone embellishment in favour of modest diamond and pearl settings. The juxtaposition of black enamel and green enamel creates a bold, vivid contrast.<br><br><br>ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.<br><br> Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.<br><br> The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.<br><br> Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.<br><br> All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authentica

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