From the Private Collection of a New York Socialite
Linzeler-Marchak | Gem-Set and Diamond Pendant-Watch, France
Auction Closed
April 15, 07:53 PM GMT
Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
From the Private Collection of a New York Socialite
Linzeler-Marchak | Gem-Set and Diamond Pendant-Watch, France
Of geometric design, suspending a stylized vase featuring carved and cabochon rubies, sapphires and emeralds, set throughout with old European and single-cut diamonds, further decorated with black enamel, calibré-cut onyx and topped by a round amethyst, the reverse featuring a manual watch movement, signed Linzeler-Marchak, numbered 1286, with French assay marks, one small onyx missing; circa 1925.
The signature inscribed on this brooch represents the partnership between Robert Linzeler and Alexander Marchak, who together produced exceptional Art Deco jewels during the brief years from 1922 to 1927. The Linzeler family had a long history in the French jewelry trade that dated back to the early 19th century and Alexander was the son of the talented Russian jeweler Joseph Marchak (nicknamed “The Cartier of Kiev”). Alexander arrived in Paris in 1918, and by 1922 with Robert Linzeler, they branded the business Linzeler et Marchak, which operated from Linzeler’s shop at 4 rue de la Paix in Paris. Known for their jewels in stunning Art Deco style including rings of geometric design, openwork brooches, and drop earrings, they also supplied pendant watches and objects of virtue. They employed expert craftsman such as Vladimir Makovsky who supplied the exotic inlays of mother-of-pearl, and Strauss, Allard & Meyer who fashioned the vanity cases, as well as workshops like Vacheron & Constantin for the clock and watch movements.
Linzeler et Marchak were awarded a Grand Prix at the 1925 Paris Exhibition International des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Moderne for the quality, design, craftsmanship and technical expertise of their jewelry designs. However, it was later that year that the partnership ended, and Alexander Marchak took over the shop at 4 rue de la Paix, keeping the name Linzeler et Marchak until he changed it to A. Marchak in December 1927.