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"Punchinello" Dancing Fur Clip, Marcel Boucher Masterpiece NWS 1-1415 ~ The most precious of precious, Marcel Boucher's Punchinello. Do you know the story behind this character? Punchinello thinks himself imperfect, because he's not as talented or as pretty as the other Wemmicks (small wooden toys) in his town. Good ones are awarded little star stickers, and bad ones are given dots. Punchinello had lots of dots, but Eli, the craftsman who made him, told Punchinello that he was special, "because I made you, and I don't make mistakes". This is a wonderful children's story, written by Max Lucado, about God. "People look on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart." (I Samuel 16:7) ~ This cherished Boucher fur clip is extremely rare and very highly prized by collectors for reasons you can readily see. Made with rhodium plated metal, this figural bears the famous, luminous enamels for which Boucher was famous. Punchinello wears a costume of navy blue and turquoise blue-green stripes, with a narrow band of faceted, faux diamonds between each color. ~ His jester-like shoes are black enamel, and his "dots" are denoted with metallic red enamel pom-poms on his shoes, and one at the top of his hat. Four matching red metallic buttons are on his vest. All of this enameling was done by hand. In addition, each faceted crystal was cut by hand, and each was lovingly pavé-set by hand as well. ~ In his right hand, he bears what could be a rattle, with exquisite details - you can see each finger wrapped around the rattle's stem, and a champagne colored, glass pearl sits at the top. In his right hand, he holds a crystal-studded baton or flute. ~ Punchinello's head is depicted with a large, pale blue, faux moonstone cabochon that has an irresistible luminescence. ~ Remember that this is a representation of a child's toy, so it comes as no surprise that, suspended between his legs, is a small silver chain and ball. When you pull it down, his legs and arms spring up! So heavenly charming! ~ The fur clip measures 3.75" high and 2.25" wide when his legs are raised.
Research: Also featured in the book, Twentieth Century Costume Jewellery, by Angie Gordon, p. 106; 1990 value given $2,500-$3,000! c. 1940, several small areas of worn enamel, but in excellent vintage condition. All of the stones appear to be the originals, some have mellowed over time. Pearl is in perfect condition. Price = $2,225.00 Safe Shopping Guarantee a-c1, clips Who was Boucher? |
