{"title":"6.26 Sophisticated Snakes","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"wedgwood-diceware-snake-handled-vase","title":"Wedgwood Diceware Snake-Handled Vase","description":"Tricolor jasperware was one of Wedgwood’s most celebrated innovations, and this exquisitely rare vase is an extraordinary example of this wondrous technique. The tall neck of the graceful amphora form is flanked by upright scroll handles entwined with sinuous serpents, a rare inclusion for Wedgwood. The upper register is expertly applied in relief with a continuous frieze depicting the marriage of Cupid and Psyche above a diceware pattern with yellow centered quatrefoils and stiff-leaf tips. This captivating vase rests on a circular socle and square base. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The lavish appearance of the tricolor variety of jasperware not only displays remarkable creativity on Wedgwood’s part, but a high level of craftsmanship previously unseen. Tricolor jasperware was introduced by the firm in 1786, and diceware, with its precise pattern, was among the most complex versions of their tricolor pottery. Today, tricolor pottery is highly uncommon and eagerly sought after by collectors. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Impressed uppercase mark \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 14 3\/4“ high x 5 3\/4\" wide x 5 3\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42572133630087,"sku":"31-4256","price":19850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4256_1.png?v=1746450185"},{"product_id":"garnet-snake-bracelet","title":"Garnet Snake Bracelet","description":"Rich red garnets adorn the ends of this exquisite Victorian-era bracelet. Diamonds and delicate milgrain detail accentuate the garnets, while coiled yellow gold completes the elegant snake design. Set in silver and 22K yellow gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43565621575815,"sku":"31-4395","price":13500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4395_1.png?v=1764955482"},{"product_id":"vietnamese-silver-tea-set","title":"Vietnamese Silver Tea Set","description":"This exquisitely detailed 19th-century 5-piece tea set exemplifies the meticulous artistry displayed by silversmiths of Vietnam. The ornate set, said to have been owned by the Emperor of Vietnam, then called French Indochina, is impressive not only for its royal provenance and meticulous artistry but also for the astonishing weight of the silver itself, which is 99% pure. Masterfully handcrafted during the famed Nguyen dynasty of Vietnam, the collection incorporates East Asian imagery over traditional French motifs. Imposing dragons, vignettes of figures and fauna and decorative script are interspersed between scrolling floral and foliate motifs. Slithering, scaled snakes chase the edges of the serving tray and form the handles of the teapots and sugar bowls. The set is a testament to the painstaking craftsmanship and artistic beauty that mark Vietnamese silver. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The tea set is further distinguished by prestigious provenance, said to have been owned by the Emperor of French Indochina. The Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) was the final Vietnamese dynasty, ruling Vietnam for over eighty years before the establishment of the French protectorate. The set then passed to the collection of the Marquis de Colomb de Puyblanc, a successful Lieutenant in the Sino-French War and an important figure in the establishment of the French protectorate. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Bears city mark of Hanoi\u003cbr\u003e Marked “Licheng” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Tray: 17\" high x 23 1\/4\" wide x 3\" deep\u003cbr\u003e Large teapot: 10 1\/4\" high x 10\" wide x 7\" deep\u003cbr\u003e Small teapot: 7\" high x 11\" wide x 7\" deep\u003cbr\u003e Cream jug: 6 1\/4\" high x 6 1\/2\" wide x 5\" deep\u003cbr\u003e Sugar bowl: 6 3\/4\" high x 9\" wide x 6\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Emperor of Indochina (by repute)\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection of the Marquis de Colomb de Puyblanc\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Hughes Jules de la Vergne\u003cbr\u003e Drs. Lula and William Ford\u003cbr\u003e Dr. and Mrs. J. Brian Eby\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Austin, Texas\u003cbr\u003e M. S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42049229324423,"sku":"31-7238","price":98500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7238_1_404ecbe0-9512-42eb-98f9-485a6a738a98.png?v=1736063496"},{"product_id":"gold-and-enamel-snake-bracelet","title":"Gold and Enamel Snake Bracelet","description":"This eye-catching vintage bangle takes the form of a slithering snake. The handcrafted gold and black enamel bracelet perfectly simulates the scaly skin of the captivating reptile, and the serpent's eyes are formed of glittering marquise-cut white diamonds totaling approximately 0.50 carat. Set in 18K yellow gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1970 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 6 3\/4\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44263412564103,"sku":"31-7397","price":48500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7397_1_429a5ce7-5588-4596-a51b-3205974b77f6.png?v=1778786475"},{"product_id":"david-webb-double-headed-snake-bracelet","title":"David Webb Double-Headed Snake Bracelet","description":"Slithering with sophistication, this striking double-headed snake bracelet is a masterpiece by David Webb. Intricately textured in 18K yellow gold and platinum, the scale-like design shimmers with approximately 27.15 carats of diamonds. Its mesmerizing eyes are crafted from carved rubies and cabochon emeralds, adding a vibrance to the elegant work. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Renowned for his exuberant designs and impeccable craftsmanship, David Webb is celebrated as one of the most influential American jewelers of the 20th century. Favored by icons such as Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy and the Duchess of Windsor, Webb drew inspiration from powerful animal motifs, with serpents becoming a hallmark of his work from the 1960s. His snake jewels, bold yet wearable, remain signature creations and firmly establish his enduring legacy.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43431560773767,"sku":"32-1555","price":375000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1555_1.png?v=1764592529"},{"product_id":"une-charmeuse-by-emile-cambiaggio","title":"Une charmeuse by Emile Cambiaggio","description":"Emile Cambiaggio\u003cbr\u003e 1857-1930 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eUne charmeuse\u003cbr\u003e (A charmer)\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"E. Cambiaggio\" (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This magnificent painting by Émile Cambiaggio stands as the artist's masterpiece and a remarkable example of 19th-century Salon painting—exceptional both for its grand scale and brilliant technique. Measuring over six and a half feet in width, this extraordinary canvas envelops the viewer, transporting them into the exotic world of the Orient. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e To be invited to showcase a painting in the Paris Salon was often the high point of an artist’s career. Artists reserved their finest creations for this prestigious venue, and Cambiaggio clearly followed suit with \u003cem\u003eUne charmeuse\u003c\/em\u003e, which was displayed at the 1887 Salon. The reclining figure of the snake charmer at the center is rendered with exceptional refinement and naturalism, reflecting Cambiaggio's talent. The supple modeling of flesh demonstrates his sophisticated understanding of light and form, and the luminous hues and intricate textures that surround the figures bring the mesmerizing scene to life. Every surface, from the radiant skin of the charmer to the rich textiles, is executed with extraordinary control. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work embodies the height of the 19th-century Orientalist tradition, revealing the period's fascination with exotic themes while maintaining a disciplined adherence to academic ideals of draftsmanship and finish. The painting’s grandeur, coupled with its technical excellence, situates it firmly within the lineage of Salon masterpieces designed to impress through both subject and execution. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Émile Cambiaggio was an accomplished painter active in Paris for most of his life, where he absorbed the influence of French academic painting and Orientalist subject matter. Cambiaggio exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon, earning recognition for his figure compositions distinguished by polished technique and dramatic presentation. This great masterpiece of his oeuvre embodies his exceptional talent and critical role in defining Academic painting of the late 19th century. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1887 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 55 1\/4\" high x 80 1\/4\" wide (140.34 x 203.84 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 66 1\/8\" high x 91 1\/2\" wide x 4\" deep (167.96 x 232.41 x 10.16 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Sale: Christie's, London, 21 March 1997, lot 74\u003cbr\u003e Sale: Christie's, London, 3 December 2003, lot 90\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Exhibited:\u003cbr\u003e Paris, Salon of 1887, no. 432 (illustrated)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44381890773127,"sku":"32-1326","price":178500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1326_1_376e52d6-791b-4cdf-a10c-7a98b6f344ad.png?v=1775236952"},{"product_id":"emerald-and-gold-snake-bracelet","title":"Emerald and Gold Snake Bracelet","description":"This sculptural 18K yellow gold serpent bracelet coils gracefully around the wrist, culminating in a finely chased head set with sparkling white diamond eyes and crowned by a 1.00-carat emerald. The serpent motif, an enduring symbol of eternity and protection, reached the height of its popularity in fine jewelry following Queen Victoria's 1839 betrothal ring from Prince Albert, and examples remain highly sought after today.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44579219243143,"sku":"32-2551","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2551_1.png?v=1778880104"},{"product_id":"sapphire-and-diamond-earrings-1","title":"Sapphire and Diamond Earrings","description":"This striking set of drop earrings shines with 6.07 carats of deep blue sapphires forming an elegant crescent moon shape. The sapphires are encircled by a unique diamond-encrusted snake motif that gracefully coils around the entire design. The sparkling white diamonds, which continue onto the posts, total by 4.69 carats. Set in 18K white gold. ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701530554503,"sku":"32-2704","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2704_1.png?v=1780144883"},{"product_id":"egyptian-revival-pendant","title":"Egyptian Revival Pendant","description":"This bold necklace features a colorful, intricately crafted Egyptian Revival pendant. The design artfully combines turquoise, rubies, diamonds and enamel in a stunning representation of Egyptian lotus flowers, tied at the stems, accompanied by two symmetrical snakes. The pendant is complete with its elegantly beaded chain. Set in 18K yellow gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Chain: 13\" length\u003cbr\u003e Pendant: 2 1\/2\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44727966826631,"sku":"32-2680","price":18850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2680_1_ecdc8e99-b6f7-46b4-a586-557de8bae1ea.png?v=1780144581"},{"product_id":"garrard-co-egyptian-revival-pharaoh-brooch","title":"Garrard \u0026 Co. Egyptian Revival Pharaoh Brooch","description":"This colorful Egyptian Revival brooch by Garrard \u0026amp; Co. centers a pharaoh’s head, finely carved in deep blue lapis lazuli. The design is completed by two colorful enameled wings and snakes, both common motifs in Egyptian art. Accompanied by its original fitted box and set in 18K yellow gold, this brooch is a rare work of wearable art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Founded in 1735 and appointed the first official Crown Jeweler by Queen Victoria in 1843, Garrard is one of the most esteemed jewelers of the modern era, known best for their impeccable craftsmanship and sophisticated designs. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 3\/8\" length x 5\/8\" width","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44740419354759,"sku":"32-2677","price":16850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2677_1.png?v=1780420872"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/6-26-sophisticated-snakes.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}