Willy Winnaess for David Andersen Norway Sterling Silver & Guilloche Enamel Modernist Necklace

Circa Early 1950s

Measurements: 15.5"L x .4"W (39.37cm x 1.02cm)

Markings: Scales Mark in a Circle - D-A - 925S in a Circle - Norway - Sterling - Faded W Stamp for Willy Winnaess

Weight: 23.4g

Fantastic sterling silver and off-white guilloche enamel Scandinavian modernist necklace, designed by Willy Winnaess for David Andersen in the early 1950's. There is minor, uniform fading to the gilding but the enamel is fully intact, crisp and shiny. No damage or repairs. It's incredible to think this necklace is 70+ years old! Stunning and timeless statement piece. Included with purchase is an extension/safety chain.

Mannequin is a life-size torso representation

Wille Waeness was born in Oslo in 1911 and trained at J. Tostrup from 1926 to 1930. He received his Journeyman's license in 1930, and continued to work for J. Tostrup as a Journeyman another 16 years. Willy worked as a lead designer for David Andersen for seven years, until he received his crafts letter (licensed Goldsmith certification) and establishing his own workshop in Oslo. In 1957, he purchased George J Ruud & Co. and moved his workshop to that location. - Courtesy of the book: Northern Lights, The Beauty of the Forgotten Scandinavian Enamel Jewelry Artists by Lois Olson and Dwight Olson

The company was founded in Christiania (now Oslo), Norway by David Andersen in 1876. Andersen (1843-1901) was a gold and silversmith with a keen sense of quality and the high standards of his workmanship brought early success to the firm. By 1888, Andersen was able to expand his workshop into a steam powered plant and a second retail location was opened in Oslo in 1892.
David Andersen died in 1901, his son, Arthur Andersen, took the reins of the firm at that time. Arthur instituted some important changes, he decided to hyphenate the family name to David-Andersen, and as chief designer, he introduced the use of enameling on the company's gold and silver jewelry as well as hollowware. The new line was so successful that enamelled jewelry has become nearly synonymous with the David-Andersen name. The firm has remained a family business and is now run by members of the fourth generation, Uni and Jon David-Andersen.