Adam's Fine Jewellery & Watches 5th December 2023

59 70 A GEM-SET AND DIAMOND NOVELTY BROOCH, BY J.C. CHAMPAGNAT, FRENCH, CIRCA 1960 The large stylised owl perched on an onyx branch, with textured gold body and wings embellished with circular-cut citrines, the head decorated with brilliant-cut diamonds accented with circular ruby cabochons for eyes and cabochon citrine ears, mounted in 18K gold, signed JCC, with maker’s mark ‘JC’, numbered 87, French assay marks, with maker’s case, length 5.3cm, width 6.5cm € 4,000 - 5,000 Born in 1923, Parisien jeweller Jean-Claude Champagnat (1923-1988) was immersed into the world of jewellery at a young age. He started working in his father’s atelier early on, located close to the Arc de Triomphe in Rue Des Acacias in Paris. As a young adult he worked for one of Cartier’s manufacturers, gaining as much knowledge and experience that he could before taking over the family business. During his career he created pieces for renowned designer Christian Dior, Madame Grès, and Hermès during the 1950’s and 60’s. He was well known for his unique, sculptural creations inspired by animals and plants.