1980s Vintage Kenneth Jay Lane Door Knocker Necklace

A beautifully proportioned creation from master of embellishment, Kenneth Jay Lane. This gold-plated necklace features a lion's head doorknocker centrepiece with an articulated ring. Two smaller links of the same design complete the look. Its textured link chain closes with a fold-over clasp, signed KJL for Kenneth Jay Lane. The lion traditionally symbolises courage, nobility, royalty, strength, stateliness and valour. Historically the lion has been regarded as the "king of beasts". The lion also carries Judeo-Christian symbolism. The Lion of Judah stands in the coat of arms of Jerusalem. Gold plate, 49 cm ABOUT THE DESIGNER Initially working for Hattie Carnegie, and beginning his career as a shoe designer, Kenneth Jay Lane created baubles in his free time. His first costume jewellery show at New York's Saks Fifth Avenue sold out in one day. His pieces were coveted by the Duchess of Windsor, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and Jacqueline Kennedy. By the 1960`s the company became known as K.J.L and were producing brooches and other pieces that reflected Asian influences, incorporating everything from Buddhas to dragons to Indian Goddesses. PRODUCT CODE: WNL001118