MATISSE SCULTURA Blue Enamel Signed Set 1950s Wearable Art Abstract Modern 96.6g

  

BAUBLE BABE'S Fabulous Finds is a female-owned business which specializes in Quality Jewelry, Art Glass, and an eclectic array of items. Photos do not show actual size! Have a tape measure handy. I never shop for online jewelry without one! In 1946 he combined his artistic skills with the managerial prowess of his brother-in-law, Curtis Freiler, and the two founded Renoir of California in Los Angeles.

Creations were inspired by the Arts and Crafts era when copper was a favored choice of artisans and Fel's designs incorporated abstraction, biomorphism (shapes that resemble organic forms) and surrealism. In 1952, Matisse Ltd was formed, and while this jewelry was also made of copper, it had the added sparkle of enamel which took their jewelry in a new direction. Then in'58, the sterling silver line, Sauteur, was introduced followed by Golden Glow goldtone pieces produced from 1961-63. Renoir grew into a prosperous jewelry design house whose jewelry was worn by Hollywood stars like Betty Davis and Lana Turner. Fels and Freiler were also known for their benevolent, jolly natures in the workplace. They employed minorities and disabled workers (unheard of in that era) and also installed an elaborate ventilation system that prevented air pollution in the work area. The company closed in 1964, but The Jewelry, the veritable, wearable works of sculptural Art, lives on as a testament to the prolific and eclectic design genius of Jerry Fels. Solid Copper Note: Renoir's copper was always brushed with their exclusive Copron lacquer coating which gave it a long lasting, non-tarnish beauty. Also, when you solder copper, it creates a black area and modernist jewelers would "rough up" their pieces even further by applying a dark patina for greater visual interest.

You don't want to remove this detailing because it's intentional. This set is called "Scultura" and has a very abstract modern design. Fels never designed a Scultura necklace, so a full parure is offered here. It came in different colors, but this set has Turquoise Blue Enamel. The design is featured on the cover of the book, "Copper Art Jewelry; a Different Luster" by Burkholz & Kaplan, as well as on pages 72, 82,118, & 127.

Bracelet: Hinged Clamper; In terms of size, this will vary due to the hinge and the fact that Clampers may be worn with a gap - the 2 ends do not have to touch. As it is in the photos, we have a size 7 and with a gap we can take this up to a size 7.5 approx. ; 1-5/8 wide in front & 1.25 in back. Each has the same blue enamel design as the clamper and the narrow end fits at the lobe base; Stamped.

Clip backs; 1.25 L x. The last 2 reference photos are of Jerry Fels & Curt Freiler, respectively.

Very good to excellent Vintage condition considering the set is 70+ years old! Minor age appropriate wear is present. But there are no major issues to report.

The enamel is in nice condition for its age! The bracelet has a number of fine scratches, but the copper is so highly reflective they are only apparent in certain light. The earrings are in super vintage condition. Please view all photos to judge for yourself keeping in mind that they're high def Canon pics which exaggerate any blemishes that may be present.

I'll pack your box like it's going to be dropped! Adorn yourself with Mid Century Art every time you wear Renoir...

Get your art on today! Your order will be carefully packaged to ensure a safe arrival. Orders placed after 10 a.