Found: Frank Hess Amourelle Parure
Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 3:18PM ;)
This beautiful set was recently acquired from an estate in West Hartford, Connecticut. Though by all accounts it could pass as a Miriam Haskell, it is actually from the Amourelle line, produced for Kramer in the early 1960's. The reason for the striking similarities between Amourelle and Miriam Haskell is simple: designer Frank Hess. ;)
The "Amourelle" stamping.;)
Mr. Hess was the main jewelry designer for Miriam Haskell from the late 1920's until 1960, when he formally left the company. Following his departure from Miriam Haskell, he took up with Kramer for a short-lived stint developing Amourelle.
We are lucky to be able to identify these Amourelle pieces, as only the earrings are signed. But this is clearly a parure, as indicated by the identical stylings on the bracelet, earrings and necklaces, as well as their smoky gray beading.
;)
Superior craftsmanship is a hallmark of Frank Hess, and is the reason for his success and fame in the jewelry community. His talent is seen in abundance in the designs of Miriam Haskell, but Amourelle for Kramer lasted just a few years. The construction, componants, and quality of his designs can be noted in both lines.
;)
Mr. Hess's attention to detail is exquisite. Note the incricate designs of the bracelet.
;)
A view of the set on a form. "Amourelle" literally means "love her" in French; obviously Frank Hess had a love of accentuating the feminine form. He would finalize many of his designs atop live models to ensure the pieces hung right on the female frame.
Clearly, Frank Hess was unique in bringing artful designs to life. This parure of his was an exceptional discovery.
This parure is auctioning on eBay in an auction ending 12/21/09, be sure not to miss it!
Reader Comments (2)
Good writing, beautiful pictures, wow, it is wonderful,we replica Loewe bagswill always support you!
What a beautiful set. I recently acquired some Amourelle pieces myself. My bangle is the perfect match to this one. I love the pieces. They are absolutely gorgeous.