MATISSE Enamel on Copper Green 'Maple Leaf' Brooch and Clip Earring Set | California Mid 1950/60s | Highly Collectible Modernist Book Piece
This wonderful green and black enameled copper brooch and clip earring set was made between 1954 and 1964 by Californian mid-century jewelry designer, Jerry Fels.
It combines great artistry and craftsmanship and brings with it a fresh breath of springtime. The green enamel shades into black at the edges of the leaf, which is decorated by a burnished copper coil (perhaps representing the stem), and several small copper dots.
All pieces have been lacquered, which ensures that as long as the lacquer remains intact, the copper won't tarnish. There is very little wear, although the edges of the coils show slight scuffing. To the naked eye, these are barely visible, although the lighting and magnification of the photographs make them more prominent.
This highly collectible book piece is featured in Matthew L. Burkholz's, Copper Art Jewelry, on page 85.
RENOIR/MATISSE: 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 with the "Renoir" trademark, and then in 1952 added a second line, "Matisse", which incorporated enamel into the copper 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/Matisse 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 copper and copper/enamel designs.
SUMMARY: ** MAKER: Matisse (All pieces signed; see photo #7) ** PERIOD: 1954 to 1964 ** MATERIALS: Copper, enamel ** CONDITION: Very good vintage condition, with very minor marking ** INTEGRITY: Both clips are solid and tight, the brooch pin is in full working order ** BROOCH DIMENSIONS: 5.5cm x 5.0cm (~2.16" x ~1.96") ** CLIP EARRING DIMENSIONS: 2.5cm x 2.5cm (1" x 1") ** CLIP EARRING LENGTH 1" ** BROOCH WEIGHT: 20g **CLIP EARRING WEIGHT: 7g ** SHIPPING WEIGHT: 250 g ---------------------------------------------------------- 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.
