We made this plique a jour brooch with the help of Ethan Herman, Thomas Herman, Diana Casaba, Nancy Gardner, Bob Weinstock, and John Cornacchia. From conception to completion, this piece took us more than two years to complete. Made from gold, fine enamel, and diamonds, this custom enamel brooch is worthy of a museum. That’s probably why it ended up displayed in one.
But, where did the idea even come from? As many of you know, it’s not the first piece I’ve made inspired by the poppy. Unlike that custom enamel pendant, however, this one is based on the white version of the Matilija Poppy. But, the inspiration for this plique a jour brooch didn’t originate there. The inspiration from this piece came from the Ada brooch displayed at the Newark Museum. Rich in symbolism and a common inspiration for the masters, this flower was a perfect choice.
This plique a jour brooch is unique in a lot of ways: First, at 3” by 5”, it’s one of the largest I’ve ever helped make. Second, it has a lot of movement in its petals, stamen, and heavily-veined leaves. Finally, it gave me the opportunity to collaborate with some amazing artists. And, honestly, that was the best part.
On April 19, 2019, this custom enamel brooch was auctioned off for charity. It ended up selling for $47,500. Tom and I couldn’t have been happier.
Learn more about this plique a jour masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a museum-quality piece of cloisonné jewelry, you can check out my shop.