A wonderfully characterful antique bird pendant, modelled as an exotic bird of paradise with dramatically swept wings and elongated tail feathers, and set throughout with sparkling rose cut diamonds.
 
The bird is richly detailed from beak to tail, with individually set rose cuts creating a beautifully textured surface that catches the light from every angle. Its head is turned slightly to one side in a wonderfully lifelike pose, with a small natural reddish-purple ruby forming the eye and a larger vivid red paste stone set above it as a striking decorative accent to the crown.
 
The design has a particularly animated quality, with the bird appearing almost mid-flight, while the long sweeping tail feathers and colourful head detail give it the elegant, slightly fantastical appearance associated with antique bird of paradise jewellery.
 
The bird itself tests at approximately 9ct gold, while the generously sized concealed pendant bail to the reverse tests at approximately 16ct gold. The large oval bail allows the piece to be worn easily on a variety of chains while remaining almost completely hidden from the front.
 
There is a possible faded mark to the reverse of one foot, although it is now too worn to decipher.
 
The pendant presents beautifully when worn, with the rose cut diamonds remaining lively and wonderfully sparkly. As expected for an antique piece of this age, there is some wear to the stones on close inspection: the large red paste stone has a chip, one of the larger rose cut diamonds has a small knock to its surface, and a number of the diamonds show minor nibbles around their girdles. These points have been taken into account in the price and do not detract from the overall sparkle and character of the piece.
 
A fabulous and unusual antique pendant with exceptional presence and plenty of personality.