Large 18K gold, silver gilt, diamond and hardstone bird model by Asprey

Large 18K gold, silver gilt, diamond and hardstone bird model by Asprey
English, c. 1980
Height 22cm, width 17cm, depth 15cm
 
Made in around 1980, by the renowned British firm of Asprey, the model depicts a heron standing on a rock among greenery and flowers.
 
The heron is masterfully carved from amber-coloured Citrine quartz. Intricate detailing such as feather textures and the bird’s slender neck are beautifully created by the skilled makers employed by Asprey. Gold detailing applied to the body highlights certain features of the model. Black onyx is carved to form the long beak and diamonds are set to act as the eyes. The bird stands on detailed 18K gold legs attached to the rock below.
 
The base is largely occupied by a neon blue piece of azurite. Emerging from the rock are several bunches of leaves and flowers. Silver gilt is formed to depict the delicate leaves while pink-purple hardstone is carved to portray charming flowers, each one centred with a shining diamond.
 
The bird and the scenery surrounding it stand on a silver gilt base supported by flattened bun feet. The base features the maker’s mark as well as a ‘925’ mark and one of heron's legs is marked with '750'.
 
Masterfully crafted to depict a proud bird standing among a dream-like scenery, the model is guaranteed to add a touch of charm to an interior scheme.
 
Artist/ Maker: Asprey