Jewel of The Month - November 2024

Hancocks London is shining a light on a vintage cuff in 22ct yellow gold created by the iconic French jewellery house, Jean Mahie, as its November Jewel of the Month

With its bold, sculptural design and rich historical significance, the cuff embodies the avant-garde artistry that Jean Mahie is renowned for.

Dated circa 1970s, the hand-crafted cuff is designed with abstract, molten gold motifs that flow seamlessly across the surface, creating a sense of organic movement and an elegant yet bold structure. This tactile, textured aesthetic is a hallmark of Jean Mahie's craftsmanship, drawing on primitive art and ancient civilizations while maintaining a distinctly contemporary appeal.

Early Jean Mahie pieces, like this cuff bracelet, use raw textures and organic forms to challenge conventional notions of luxury jewellery. The molten, imperfect finish of this cuff is a deliberate nod to ancient goldsmithing techniques, creating a connection between the past and the present.

Guy Burton, Managing Director, Hancocks London, says: "Drawing inspiration from ancient cultures, mythology, and abstract forms, Jean Mahie’s jewellery stands apart from traditional fine jewellery of the time."

"This vintage cuff reflects the avant-garde spirit of 1970s’ jewellery design and is a rare find for us. Its timeless allure makes it a must-have for anyone looking to add a unique, artistic piece to their collection."

Jean Mahie: Pioneers of Artistic Jewellery

Jean Mahie was founded in the late 1960s by a creative duo: the father-daughter team of sculptor Jean Mazard and his daughter-in-law, Jacline Mazard. What began as a small-scale artistic endeavour in the South of France quickly gained recognition for its unconventional approach to jewellery design. Jean Mahie pieces are miniature sculptures, each with a story to tell, and the brand’s ethos was rooted in creating one-of-a-kind, handmade designs that blurred the lines between art and jewellery.

By the 1970s, Jean Mahie had attracted the attention of high-profile collectors and luxury retailers, cementing their place as pioneers of contemporary, sculptural jewellery. This cuff, created in that era, is believed to be one of their early pieces, marking an important chapter in Jean Mahie’s artistic journey.