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Chinese-inspired necklace

Joseff of Hollywood (American, founded in 1930)
American
about 1940

Medium/Technique Metal, glass
Dimensions Length: 77 cm (30 5/16 in.) chain
Height x width: 7 × 5 cm (2 3/4 × 1 15/16 in.) medallion
Credit Line Gift of Carole Tanenbaum
Accession Number2018.3966
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Americas

DescriptionThis Chinese-inspired statement necklace features a "Russian" or antique finish. The pendant is carved with a floral motif and bezel-set with blue and chalcedony glass cabochons. The center of the pendant is adorned with a raised Chinese character. The curb chain consists of bezel-set blue cabochons separated by hexagonal, floral spacers. Two medallions, each engraved with four Chinese characters and set with a chalcedony cabochon, adorn the bottom of the chain.
Marks Joseff [in script], GERMANY [on spring ring clasp]
ProvenanceBetween about 1970s and 2018, acquired by Carole Tanenbaum, Toronto, Ontario [see note]; 2018, gift of Carole Tanenbaum to the MFA. (Accession Date: December 12, 2018)

NOTE: This is part of a large collection of costume jewelry given to the MFA in 2018, which had been built over about 40 years.