Cross-pendant in 18K (750) gold cut with stylized foliage se - Lot 4

Cross-pendant in 18K (750) gold cut with stylized foliage set with rose-cut diamonds. Portuguese work, hallmarked Braga 1734-1834. Height: approx. 6.5cm. Gross weight: 13.3g (chips, more recent brooch system). A 1734-1834 Portuguese diamond pendant This type of diamond-set jewelry is representative of 18th-century Portugal, characterized by very supple ribboned motifs, linked together to form delicate foliage. It marks an evolution in this form of pendant, which in the 17th century was much more rigid in its layout. A pair of matching earrings or a necklace could be added to the cross-pendant. Such was its popularity that the model continued to be produced in the 19th century, but with less refinement in design and execution. Léonor d'Orey, Five centuries of jewellery, National Museum of ancient art, Lisbon, 1995, p. 86.