18K (750) gold cross-pendant cut with stylized foliage and k - Lot 6

18K (750) gold cross-pendant cut with stylized foliage and knotted ribbons set with rose-cut diamonds. Portuguese work, hallmarked Braga 1734-1834. Height: approx. 8.2 cm. Gross weight: 24.3 g (chips) 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 type of pendant, which in the 17th century was much more rigid in its design. The cross-pendant could be complemented by a matching pair of earrings or necklace. 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