Vintage Juliana Design Articulated Clown Rhinestone Figural Pendant IIJJ#9453

A wonderfully unusual vintage articulated clown pendant from the DeLizza & Elster design story. This large silver-tone clown holds three colorful glass “balloons” and has dark eyes that give the figure a whimsical expression. He is articulated at the waist, arms, and balloon section, giving the pendant wonderful movement when worn.

Frank DeLizza refers to this group as the “puppet line” on page 108 of Memoirs of a Fashion Jewelry Manufacturer. His discussion of these later figural designs includes balloon clowns and other whimsical characters associated with DeLizza & Elster’s creative work.

This pendant is marked DEC. As documented in Juliana Jewelry – The Last Generation, DEC-marked pieces were designed by DeLizza & Elster and the original molds were made by D&E, but the finished jewelry was manufactured by another company. The meaning of the DEC initials has not been documented.

This silver-tone articulated clown with balloons is pictured on page 325 of Juliana Jewelry – The Last Generation.

Measurements:
Chain: approximately 24 inches
Clown pendant: approximately 6.5 x 3.3 inches

Condition:
Good vintage condition with slight metal rubbing at the articulation points from normal movement and wear.