DAVID WEBB DIAMOND, EMERALD & ENAMEL TIGER PENDANT NECKLACE, 1970s

AMERICAN HIGH JEWELLERY, UNLEASHED & ROARING: We are pleased to present this spectacular David Webb tiger-head pendant in 18k yellow gold, striped in black and white enamel, with emerald eyes and a diamond-paved muzzle. Presented with a polished gold mariner-link chain, this magnificent beast possesses the unmistakable artistry of an important David Webb jewel.

Estimated to date from the 1970s, this pendant belongs to the celebrated family of animals that established Webb as a force in American jewellery. Introduced in the late Fifties, his Kingdom series transformed creatures from land, sea and sky into audacious gold sculptures. By the Seventies, when this jewel is expected to have been created, Webb's animalia had earned him the Coty American Fashion Critics’ Award and become central to his international reputation.

For us, David Webb remains the greatest American jeweller: fearless with colour, uninhibited in shape and capable of turning important materials into jewels charged with wit and personality. This roaring tiger is an epic example of American ingenuity, combining sophisticated New York goldsmithing and the glamour of high jewellery with the immediacy of pop culture.

The tiger’s head is sculpted in three dimensions, its sweeping black and white enamel stripes outlined in gold. Two faceted marquise-cut emeralds form the vivid green eyes, while fields of round diamonds illuminate the dramatically raised muzzle. The open mouth reveals a red enamel tongue, polished gold teeth and powerful fangs.

The contrast is pure Webb: graphic enamel against glowing yellow gold, intense green eyes against white diamonds, and a ferocious expression delivered with irresistible humour. The hollow reverse creates essential volume, and a hinged bail accommodates the accompanying mariner-link chain.

A COLLECTOR’S MUST: Signed period animals occupy a particularly important position within David Webb’s work. They embody the designs that defined the House, combining instantly recognisable imagery, significant material value and intricate enamel work. Webb’s animals have entered museum collections, inspired dedicated exhibitions and become some of the most coveted jewels associated with the great American designer.

STYLE: At a time when David Webb is enjoying a powerful revival, this tiger feels exceptionally fashionable. Wear it long against a black crew neck, a white shirt, dark denim or tobacco tailoring, allowing the striped enamel and emerald eyes to take control. It is a statement piece, but also an enormously fun jewel to style. We find it equally compelling for gentlemen collectors, particularly worn over a dark shirt, a fine-gauge sweater or even a formal dinner jacket.