$142,200
Natural Pearl Necklace, composed of seventy-seven pearls graduating in size from approx. 3.70 to 10.02 mm, completed by a diamond clasp set with an old mine cushion-cut diamond weighing approx. 1.00 cts., and framed by old single-cut diamond melee, lg. 19 3/4 in. Note: Accompanied by GIA report no. 1142866209, dated July 18, 2012, stating that seven of seventy-seven pearls were tested, and are natural, saltwater, Pinctada species, no indications of treatment. Provenance: Lots 716-745 descended in the family of Mrs. Hope Goddard Iselin of New York and Newport. Mrs. Iselin was an avid horsewoman, golfer, and accomplished sailor who competed on an international level. Her husband, C. Oliver Iselin, who defended the America's Cup four times, was perhaps the most famed American yachtsman of the late 19th century. The pair's vast inherited wealth, competitive spirit, and devotion to aristocratic sports made them one of the most fabulous couples of the Gilded Age. Mrs. Iselin was the first woman to compete in the America's Cup (1895 Defender , 1899 Columbia , 1903 Reliance ). In all three races, she fulfilled the critical strategic role of timekeeper, the crew member entrusted to judge when to turn for the starting line. Her participation in what is still a male-dominated sport caused controversy at the time, inspiring even the DAR to comment on her behavior. Mr. Iselin was a highly successful and daring competitor whose archrival was Lord Dunraven of the Royal Yacht Squadron; Read more…
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2012-09-11
