Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers Semi-Annual Auction to include unique pieces from the estate of Mrs. Robertson Davies

TORONTO, June 17, 2013 /CNW/ - A remarkable offering of hundreds of modern and centuries-old jewels and timepieces - including stunning pieces from the estate of Mrs. Robertson Davies -- will be offered to the public at Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers' Semi-Annual Auction at The Windsor Arms Hotel (18 St. Thomas Street) in Toronto's Yorkville district on June 23.

Pieces range from a rare gentleman's stainless steel single button chronograph wristwatch by Omega (made for the Royal Canadian Air Force), circa 1960; to an antique coral, diamond and gold bracelet, by J.E. Caldwell & Co, circa 1895; to an art deco enamel and diamond piano power compact, circa 1930, from the estate of concert pianist, Ellen Ballon to a Gold 'Fish' Bangle Bracelet designed by prize-winning architect, Frank Gehry for Tiffany & Co.

A highlight of the auction is the unique collection of jewels from the estate of Mrs. Robertson Davies to be offered for the first time. Brenda Davies, wife and soul mate of Canadian cultural icon, novelist, playwright, academic, Robertson Davies (1913- 1995), passed away in January 2013 at the age of 95.

The distinctive Davies collection features a large array of fine gold and excellent gem cameos, intaglios and polychrome enamels from the 19^th and 20^th Centuries.  Most of the pieces tell their own stories with intricately carved scenes from mythology, figures from antiquity, picturesque birds and fantastic enamelled foliage.  Also featured is the silver and paste ring that Robertson Davies slipped off his finger and placed on that of the former Brenda Mathews as an engagement ring backstage at the Old Vic theatre in London, England, where they met.  Featuring a classical figure of Demeter holding a cornucopia accented by acorns, the carved paste intaglio was to become her storied engagement ring (Lots 179-205).

"At Dupuis, we consider ourselves fortunate to be able to offer a great range of fine jewels to the public," says Duncan Parker, Vice President, Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers.  "This Spring Auction is especially exciting, not only because of the excellent offering of diamonds, gems and watches, but because the depth of history and workmanship in each is a joy to see.  We're also thrilled to be presenting the Brenda Davies collection -something that won't come along again."

It was in 1940 that Robertson Davies and his Australian bride, Brenda Mathews, were married; she was his muse and confidante, and was proud to be Mrs. Robertson Davies for the remainder of her life.  Stories were central to their relationship, spanning theatre, newspapers, publishing, playwriting, academic life, and, of course, important novels of international renown. The Davies' home was in Canada, but they returned to England often, each visit adding to a growing collection of fine European jewels, particularly excellent gem cameos, intaglios and polychrome enamels.

Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers is Canada's premiere auction house specializing exclusively in jewellery. Their services include buying and selling through auction, consulting and appraisals.  Based in Toronto, but renowned both nationally and internationally, the firm dominates the jewellery auction market in Canada with over 80% of market share by value. The company was established in 1986 by Ron Dupuis to provide a venue for people to sell their personal jewellery to a diverse international audience. Dupuis and his team have made history over the past 25 years by selling jewels totalling more than $50,000,000. The firm conducts two major international auctions in Toronto each year - spring and fall.

Image with caption: "Lot 205 An Antique Gem-Set, Enamel and Silver Suite, early 19th century. Property from the estate of Brenda and Robertson Davies (CNW Group/Dupuis Auctioneers)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130617_C8395_PHOTO_EN_28048.jpg

SOURCE: Dupuis Auctioneers