Bonhams
A stunning collection of jewellery from Goldsmiths Hall’s recent exhibition ‘Precious Statements’ – which was viewed by over 6,000 visitors – is to go under the hammer at Bonhams’ Sale of Jewellery at Montpelier Street, Knightsbridge, London, on 13 September 2006. The exquisite work of acclaimed artist-jeweller John Donald, whose modern designs are currently enjoying a revival, will make up 13 lots of Bonhams’ sale, with estimates ranging from £200 – 3,000.

From the 1960s to the modern day, John Donald’s original creations, which incorporate meticulous craftsmanship with inspirational flair, have been acclaimed by a distinguished audience, and his work features at the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Royal Museum of Scotland, and the Pforzheim Museum in Germany.

“BAROQUE IN MOOD AND ORGANIC IN FORM”

John Donald is one of a group of jewellers working from the 1960s credited with revolutionising British jewellery design, paving the way for a new fluidity in pattern and construction. He was a pioneer in using natural crystals, often juxtaposing the rough, uncut forms with diamonds and pearls. His ingenious experiments with gold and silver produced results which often mirrored the natural habitat in which they were found. His work has been hailed as “Baroque in mood and essentially organic in form.”

Donald’s remarkable combination of meticulously handcrafted gold work and unusual gemstones has endured the many changes in fashion and taste since the 1960s. His exceptional creativity, individuality and attention to detail have ensured that his designs remain as exciting and glamorous today as when they were first produced, and the emergence of this collection to the market will doubtless enthuse jewellery aficionados and trend-followers.

Highlights of the collection include:

A sapphire, diamond and gold ring, by John Donald, 1967 (£2,500 – 3,000)
A gold, cultured pearl and onyx bracelet, earclip and ring suite, by John Donald (£1,000 – 1,500)
An abstract gold brooch, by John Donald, 1966 (£600 – 800)
A pair of gold earclips, by John Donald, 1970 (£250 – 350)
A gold, coral and diamond brooch, by John Donald, 1970 (£700 – 900)
A gold and baroque cultured pearl pendant, by John Donald, 1971 (£400 – 600)
A pair of gold earrings, by John Donald, 1979 (£200 – 300)

Posted: 08|26|06 at 8:36 am. Filed under: UK News.