Rolph Scarlett Sterling and Agate Drop Pendant

Rolph Scarlett (American, 1891–1984) was an Abstract artist best known for his geometric, abstract paintings, and avant-garde jewelry. Born in Ontario, Canada, Scarlett learned to paint from his grandmother’s instruction and his studies at the Art Students League. While he was working for his uncle’s jewelry business, Scarlett became interested in Modern and Abstract Art during a visit to New York in 1913, when he saw the work of Wassily Kandinsky (Russian, 1866–1944) at The Armory Show. In 1923, while traveling on business, Scarlett met the painter Paul Klee (Swiss, 1879–1940), who encouraged him to try executing abstract drawings.