MALACHITE, ONYX AND DIAMOND “SERPENTI” WATCH BY BULGARI
CIRCA 1960s
When it comes to the history of snakes being featured in high jewelry, Cleopatra was well known for favouring snake jewelry likely one of the elements that perpetuated her image as a beautiful seductress.
BULGARI synonymous with snake jewelry, with its Bulgari Serpenti line being a muse for the brand and its best-selling collection.
The first Bulgari Serpenti piece was designed in 1948, a bracelet-watch in gold with a square head for the dial and a body that wraps around the wrist.
The design eventually evolved in the 1950s to resemble more of a serpent, featuring a realistic looking snake head that is set with precious stones such as rubies, sapphires or emeralds for the eyes.
By the 1960s, the body of the Bulgari Serpenti bracelet-watches took on a more sophisticated design as well, featuring scales made from sheet gold that was attached to one another with gold pivots. Some of the designs feature gemstones such as malachite, lapis lazuli, coral, jade, onyx and turquoise were used to embellish the scales.
New York / Paris
BY APPOINTMENT
gadi@gadibehar.com