1960s RENOIR Copper & Black Geometric Grecian Necklace and Earring Set

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RENOIR Copper and Black Geometric Grecian Necklace and Clip Earring Set | California Mid 1950/60s | Highly Collectible Modernist Book Piece

With its geometric styling complemented by the lightness of the filigree work, this ,Grecian, necklace and clip earring set is an excellent example of classic Renoir jewelry, which takes much of its inspiration from the Arts and Crafts era, where copper was favored by artisans producing hammered hollowware.

Each copper element has slightly blackened edges to enhance the contrast and add further depth, creating a stunning effect when the necklace is worn over a solid color sweater - especially one with a high collar.

The necklace looks equally good inside an opened white shirt, while the set offers the versatility to be worn for both casual and more formal occasions, and everything in between!

The necklace can be worn choker-style, or the 12" base length can be extended to 19.5".

From 1954 onwards, Renoir pieces carried the copyright symbol, which dates this Grecian necklace and clip earring set to somewhere between 1954 and 1964 (when the company ceased operations). It is featured in Matthew L. Burkholz,s, Copper Art Jewelry, on page 96.

RENOIR: CALIFORNIAN MODERNIST STYLE
Renoir of California was founded in Los Angeles in 1946 by Jerry Fels, a graduate of the Arts Student League and the National Academy of Design, who had returned from serving as a fighter pilot during World War II.

The firm initially produced copper jewelry and then added a second line, Renoir Matisse, which incorporated enamel into the existing designs. The pieces have a distinctive West Coast feel about them, and in their elegant simplicity reflect the design ethos of the modernist movement.

Renoir jewelry was popular amongst the Hollywood set, with Lana Turner and Bette Davis amongst their many clients. The company ceased operations in 1964, however, there is strong demand from collectors for quality pieces in both the copper and the copper/enamel, designs.

SUMMARY:
** MAKER: Renoir of California (All pieces signed; see photo #7)
** PERIOD: 1954 to 1964
** MATERIALS: Copper
** NECKLACE LENGTH: 12” with 7.5" extender
** NECKLACE AND CLIP EARRING WIDTH: 5/8"
** CLIP EARRING LENGTH 1"
** NECKLACE WEIGHT: 56g
** CLIP EARRING  WEIGHT: 11g

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IMPORTANT: This is a pre-owned vintage item that may show wear commensurate with age. The photographs, physical dimensions, and weight form an integral part of the description of every piece we offer. If you have any questions, please ask before ordering.