December 19-20, 2022 Fine & Decorative Arts
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/19/2022
Exceptional ladies' 18k yellow gold diamond and enameled cross necklace with memorial photograph of an unidentified Civil War veteran, wearing a later style kepi cap, with what appears to be a GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) Post #10 insignia within a wreath of olive branches. The diamond cross is set with a total of seven old mine-cut round diamonds measuring approx. 3mm each, with an estimated total weight of 0.70cts. The background is finished in blue guilloche enamel and is absolutely breathtaking. There are three tiered rows of white and blue circular enameled medallions encircling the cross, and the design is also repeated on the bail in graduated succession. There is an unknown maker's mark on the back of the bail with two conjoined back-to-back "P"s with three budding flowers. Includes original box marked "Roma" with retailer's name as well. Pendant measures 2" long by 1 - 1/2" wide by 5/8" thick. Chain measures 27 - 1/2" long by 4.5mm thick. Gross weight 37.5 g. Although the veteran in the portrait's exact name is unknown, his family name is not. He is a descendant of Robert Fulton. Provenance: Acquired through a member of the Fulton family (Lancaster, PA). Robert Fulton (November 14, 1765 - February 24, 1815) was an American inventor and engineer who is best known for his role in developing the first commercially successful steamboat. America’s rivers opened to commercial trade and passenger transportation after Fulton's steamboat, the Clermont, made its maiden voyage along the Hudson River in 1807. Fulton is also credited with inventing the Nautilus, one of the world’s first practical submarines.
Condition: (Excellent - Near Mint).