Matisse Green 'Freeform' Brooch & Earring Set

Matisse Green 'Freeform' Brooch & Earring Set This is a gorgeous vintage Matisse 'Freeform' brooch and earring set in a rich green colour. The brooch and earrings are made from copper which has then been enameled in green which shades to black towards the right, and the depth of colour and the enamelling is a good example of the naturalistic style which Matisse jewellery was famous for. The 'Freeform' design is enhanced by copper studs and curving copper lassos' acheiving the space-age style. The back of the brooch is signed with the Matisse signiture behind the back pin and both of the earrings are signed on the metal clasps, indicating that it was only made for the Matisse division of the company. The set can be dated between 1952 and 1954 as it bears the same geometric script used for the Renoir pieces, but does not have the © mark used on all pieces after 1954. The brooch clasp also has a security roll over to ensure safty whilst wearing such a lovely piece. Very good vintage condition. Renoir of California was founded in 1946 by Jerry Fels, specialising in solid copper jewellery. While the earlier Arts & Crafts movement was an inspiration to many of the designs, most of the pieces show characteristics of the geometric and abstact designs of the mid 20th century. In 1952 Fels also founded the subsidiary company Matisse Ltd, which independently took the copper jewellery a stage further by adding colourful enamal decoration with designs based on natural objects such as leaves. The plaquettes and inserts of enamel were expressions of Fel's interest with modern art and sculpture from artists such as Kandinsky and Miro. Sadly, both companies ceased trading in 1962, but left behind two distinctly recognisable forms of costume jewellery. Size brooch - 5cm x 7cm Size earrings - 2.5cm x 2.5cm Clips for non-pierced ears 1 set available Arrives in a blue Pink Monkey gift box

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