HUGE 18K Yellow Gold Enamel Clown Violin Musician Brooch Pin Pendant by Rudy Cherny, German-born mid-century jeweler
Charming musician mime is holding a textured violin in one hand, a bow in the other
Movable articulated legs are semi-flexibly connected, dangle back and forth slightly as the wearer moves
Plaid jacket, colorful jabot, nose, eyes and the patch on the textured pants are expertly set with multi-color enamel
Every millimeter not set with hot enamel is meticulously textured by skillful hand
This fine piece dates back to 1950s and is in excellent vintage condition
Can be worn as a brooch or as a pendant - the pin can also be used as a bail if desired
Weight 21.8 grams - this is a heavy, massive brooch
Measures 55 mm by 33 mm at widest point
Marked 18K , signed CHERNY - as shown
Figural pins in history
Figural pins were introduced during Victorian era.
Brooches depicted hunting dogs, horses, charming foxes, bunnies, marlines, hunting guns, fishing poles, tennis rackets, bicycles, exotic birds - whatever struck wearer's fancy.
These lovely adornments became increasingly popular around 1950s.
By then most prominent jewelry houses started to craft adorable fawns, playful kittens, puppies, baby lions, and First Ladies and aristocracy collected them.