The glamorous designs of Raymond Yard set the standard for American jewelry in the mid-twentieth century. As Yard’s reputation for high standards and honest candor grew, clients turned into friends, transcending traditional business relationships. It was in the early years of his career at Marcus & Co. that Yard began his lasting friendship with John D. Rockefeller Jr., one of his earliest supporters when Yard’s independent business began in 1922. Yard’s relationship with the Rockefellers became a family affair with all of John Jr.’s sons continuing to patronize Yard in the decades that followed.

World War II rationing challenged the Yard’s firm to evolve from their traditional, angular, platinum-set jewels of the Art Deco period for more experimental, whimsical designs. This transition inspired the “jelly belly” animal brooches with carved gemstones and decorative details, as seen in the present lot with provenance dating back to Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd, thence by descent.