Kutchinsky - An 18ct gold diamond and ruby set squirrel brooch

circa 1967, with textured fur and a long bushy tail set with six grain set round brilliant cut diamonds, ruby cabochon eye surrounded by a border of diamonds, holding a cornelian ball in its paws, length 4cm, pin and revolver fitting, London hallmarks for 18ct gold, signed 'Kutchinsky', weight 20g, presented in the original signed case

The Kutchinsky business was established in 1893 when Hirsch Kutchinsky arrived in England, having fled Poland along with his son, Morris, and other members of the family. They brought with them many years of experience in the trade, having served as jewellers to the court of Ludwig of Bavaria. Much of the jewellery they made during the late 1940s and 1950s was purposefully ostentatious. Whimsical designs of animals and birds have become synonymous with the name Kutchinsky - the firm created a menagerie of characterful creatures over the years.

Condition Report

In overall very good condition.

All stones present and secure within the settings.

Minor abrasion to the ruby cabachon eye, only visible with a 10X loupe.

The pin opens and closes positively with no sign of strain.

Wear and tear to the case, consistent with age.