Jean Després jewels

Born in 1889, Jean Després began formal training as an apprentice at the age of 14 with a Parisian silversmith. It was in this rapidly industrializing city that he drew his inspiration: attracted by the modernity of forms and materials, he immediately stood out as a bold and innovative artist. By associating with contemporary artists such as Picasso, Modigliani, and Braque, he discovered Futurism and Cubism, which further influenced his work and distanced him even more from traditional silversmithing.

In 1914, as France entered World War I, Jean Després was forced to work as an industrial draftsman in military aviation workshops. This experience deeply inspired his work as a silversmith after the war, when he returned to Avallon, the town of his childhood, to set up his workshop.

Gifted with exceptional talent, Després sought to reflect the modern aesthetic of his time. He regularly participated in various salons and exhibitions in Paris, which soon brought him public recognition.

By the 1930s, Jean Després had reached the pinnacle of his craft. He created simple and original jewelry distinguished by its bold and massive shapes. He frequently worked with silver and stones such as onyx, turquoise, and chalcedony. It was also during this period that he created his famous "motor" jewelry, shaped like nails and metal scraps. These avant-garde pieces were inspired by the mechanics of airplane engines, whose forms and lines he had observed during his time as an industrial draftsman. They were presented to the public during the "Aeronautics and Art" exhibition in 1930. On this central theme of his work, he once said: "Mechanics impose a thoroughly modern discipline of precision and sturdiness, thus rejecting anything unnecessary or complicated."

Our specialists are available to evaluate your precious and semi-precious stones, jewelry, bracelets, rings, necklaces, vintage creations, or signed pieces set with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and fine pearls. They are at your disposal for free and confidential appraisals by appointment. The team travels throughout France and to the house’s representative offices. Feel free to contact us to discuss the purchase or sale of a piece of jewelry.

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