Meet The Specialist
Cecilia Andrén
Specialist, Jewellery
What do you do at Bukowskis?
I am a Specialist in Bukowskis’ Jewellery department. Our next sale is Important Spring Sale on 14 June, where jewellery will be the grand finale of the day: lots 466-613.
Lot 504. A WA Bolin platinum ring set with a faceted sapphire and old- and eight-cut diamonds. Estimate: 175 000 - 200 000 SEK
Lot 504. A WA Bolin platinum ring set with a faceted sapphire and old- and eight-cut diamonds. Estimate: 175 000 - 200 000 SEK
Where are you from? And what inspired you to go into the auction world?
I was born and raised in Stockholm, and I knew early on that I wanted to work with art. Eventually, I stumbled into the world of jewellery and also studied gemmology.
What was your first job?
My first job in the industry was at a Stockholm-based auction house, I worked there while studying at Stockholm University. My interest in art history eventually shifted to a fascination with the art of jewellery. Before starting at Bukowskis, I worked for many years at W.A. Bolin, one of the oldest jewellery firms with roots in the Russian Imperial Court.
Lot 552. A C Giuliano 18K gold and enamel necklace set with a faceted tourmaline and a pearl. Estimate: 40 000 - 50 000 SEK
Lot 552. A C Giuliano 18K gold and enamel necklace set with a faceted tourmaline and a pearl. Estimate: 40 000 - 50 000 SEK
Name one of your triumphs.
In 2022, we had the honour of selling a fantastic Boucheron tiara from the early 1900s, which achieved SEK3,375,000. Working so closely with such an important historical object was possibly the best thing I have done in my years at Bukowskis.
What has changed in the business since you started?
Jewellery is often associated with its precious materials, and so is frequently seen as a ‘luxury item’ instead of a ‘work of art’. But over my many years in the industry, I have seen a clear shift where jewellery’s history and aesthetics are now more appreciated.
Lot 568. Fabergé, bracelet, workmaster August Hollming, S:t Petersburg 1898/9-1903, inventory number 71283. Estimate: 40 000 - 50 000 SEK
Lot 568. Fabergé, bracelet, workmaster August Hollming, S:t Petersburg 1898/9-1903, inventory number 71283. Estimate: 40 000 - 50 000 SEK
What is your strength as a specialist?
I have a passionate interest in jewellery art and history, and I am always open to and curious about learning more. One of the best parts of my job is meeting so many amazing people, something that I deeply appreciate.
Lot 571. A Fabergé snow flake brooch, design Alma Pihl. Estimate: 300 000 - 400 000 SEK
Lot 571. A Fabergé snow flake brooch, design Alma Pihl. Estimate: 300 000 - 400 000 SEK
Do you have a hidden talent?
Late in life, I discovered the charm of orchids. I dare not claim to have a special talent for caring or cultivating them, but it is extremely peaceful to tinker with them and try to understand this rather capricious type of flower!
Which piece of jewellery has changed your life?
A few years ago, by chance, I ended up at a small museum near Naples Cathedral that houses all the gifts —including jewellery—given by kings, emperors and other dignitaries to the city's patron saint, San Gennaro. Although not life-changing, the sight of all the treasures of gemstones and precious metals was truly breathtaking and a reminder of how powerful and impactful jewellery art can be.
Lot 487. A hardstone cameo necklace and a pair of earrings in gold with enamel and set with pearls. Estimate: 300 000 - 400 000 SEK.
Lot 487. A hardstone cameo necklace and a pair of earrings in gold with enamel and set with pearls. Estimate: 300 000 - 400 000 SEK.
What's exciting about your next sale?
Sweden’s geographical proximity to the Russian Imperial Court has resulted in many Fabergé jewels being in the country—and we have several Fabergé pieces in our upcoming auction. It will be exciting to see how much the snowflake brooch by Alma Pihl will sell for!
Bukowskis is part of The Bonhams Network. Learn more about upcoming auctions and contact Cecilia Andrén on cecilia.andren@bukowskis.com
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