Printed from Woolley & Wallis

Description

λ JEAN VITAU, A GEM-SET GOLD PUFFIN BROOCH, the stylised bird pavé-set with pink and yellow sapphires, a diamond head and coral beak, with black onyx and peridot accents in yellow gold, signed Jean Vitau and stamped 18k, length 5cm

Jean Vitau (1928-2011) was a French-born, New York-based jeweller, known for his vibrant use of colour, sculptural goldwork and imaginative figurative motifs. Trained in Paris before establishing his own workshop in the United States, Vitau developed a distinctive aesthetic that combined meticulous craftsmanship with playful, expressive design. His bird and animal jewels, in particular, are noted for their richly pavé-set surfaces and carefully balanced compositions. The present brooch reflects these hallmarks of Viatu's style, showcasing his skill in harmonising bold gemstone colour with elegant, fluid form