Reverse intaglio crystal tabby cat

A rather fabulous example of a reverse intaglio carving, circa 1900. The high carat gold pendant with a detachable brooch fitting is set with 3 carats of old-cut and rose-cut diamonds in silver settings and a natural pearl drop. The crystal carving depicts a realistically modelled three dimensional tabby cat in a wicker basket. The reverse is backed with mother-of-pearl. The technique of reverse intaglio crystal carving required great skill, first carving out a domed rock crystal in intaglio and then painting the carving in fine detail. The effect achieved is photo-realistic. The pendant is 2.5 inches long and 1 and 1/4 inches wide. Very fine quality carving, immaculate.

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