In April 2008, I noted Christies as appraising this Lucien Galliard comb (c. 1900) at $100,000 to $150,000. I guess it didn’t sell. Today, it’s appearing at auction again with an estimate of $80,000 to $120,000. The art is still astonishing, but markets have changed, sadly. Addendum: No, they haven’t! Price realized: $218,500, 10/21/09

Called the bluebird comb, three dark- and light-blue enamel and gold bluebirds have diamond eyes and soar through pale blue and white plique-à-jour enamel clouds. The stars are made from old-cut diamonds.

Lucien Gaillard employed Japanese craftsmen in order to create jewelry for the 1900 Paris Exposition. When Lalique saw his collection, he told Gaillard to focus on that area. Following the Exhibition, Galliard’s Japanese craftsman created unique pieces such as the Bluebird Comb, even though he put his own signature on them.