CHAMPAKALI, cordonnet necklace, the center in 750 thousandth - Lot 144

CHAMPAKALI, cordonnet necklace, the center in 750 thousandths gold and metal decorated with a frieze of Champa flower buds (frangipane flower) enameled in polychrome and set with rose-cut diamonds on foil, each supporting in pampille an emerald, or a fine pink stone, small cultured or fine pearls and blue glass balls. The larger central motif features a flower surrounded by a crescent moon set with rose-cut diamonds on foil in the kundan technique. The polychrome-enameled back is decorated with stars or flowers. Each motif is topped by an enameled cup containing a small fine or cultured pearl and a small blue glass ball. The ends of each cordonet are decorated with small freshwater pearls, ruby or red stone balls and emeralds. Probably 19th-century Indian work. (Worn, chipped and missing). Gross weight : 116 g Champakali necklaces feature a succession of champa flower bud motifs. Champa flowers were part of offerings made to deities in sacred places. A model of similar motifs: Bernadette Van Gelder, Traditional Indian jewellery, beautiful people, p.174-175. Bibl. Bernadette Van Gelder, Traditional Indian jewellery, beautiful people, p.295