ART DECO AGATE, CORAL AND ENAMEL SAINT CHRISTOPHER PLAQUE, CARTIER

During the 1920s and 1930s, Cartier created some of its most iconic ‘objets de vertu,’ reflecting the firm’s impeccable design and craftsmanship. The decision to expand the business beyond jewelry and into decorative objects was at first in response to the popularity of similar decorative items available from the Russian court jeweler, Peter Carl Fabergé. Cartier’s clientele, which included many Russians who maintained homes in Paris, were accustomed to the superb craftsmanship of Fabergé objects and expected the same from Parisian houses. Carved in agate, jade and other hardstones, these objects became popular gifts among high society and royalty.