A gold and enamelled brooch in the form of a cicada
by René Lalique,

the wings carried out in plique-à-jour enamel terminated with diamonds, the body of mottled green glass,
the eyes set with diamonds in gold collets, the gold reverse of the body minutely represented. 

Paris, c.1902.

The cicada is a popular motif in the arts of Japan, its song being considered emblematic of summer; it is also
often depicted as a netsuke.  Lalique’s attention to detail in the reverse of his pieces as demonstrated in
this brooch echoes the naturalistic depictions of netsuke carvings.

Contained in its original moiré silk lined board case.

Exhibited:

Japonisme: from Falize to Fabergé, the Goldsmith and Japan,
Wartski, 2011, number 98.