A delightful late Georgian Pinchbeck lion seal fob dating to the Regency period, circa 1810–1830. Finely hand chased with a wonderfully naturalistic lion standing proudly upon a textured grassy mound, the figure is mounted above a beautifully engraved oval bezel set with a blank carnelian seal.
Beautifully modelled, the lion is full of character with his rounded muscular frame, expressive face and individually chased flowing mane. Under magnification, the quality of the craftsmanship becomes even more apparent, with crisp hand-engraved detailing throughout. The decorative bezel is equally well executed, its finely engraved border providing an elegant frame for the polished oval carnelian beneath.
Crafted in Pinchbeck, the finest imitation gold alloy of the Georgian period, the fob retains the rich, warm colour that made the material so highly prized during the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Invented around 1720 by London watchmaker and chemist Christopher Pinchbeck, the closely guarded alloy of copper and zinc so convincingly imitated high-carat gold that it became the preferred material for quality jewellery, watch seals and personal accessories. Following the introduction of rolled gold and later, the legalisation of 9-carat gold in Britain in 1854, Pinchbeck gradually fell from favour, making surviving Georgian examples increasingly desirable to collectors today.
A generous oval jump ring allows the fob to be worn on a fine antique watch chain or suspended from a gold neck chain for wear as a pendant. Note the chain shown for display only and is not included.
A wonderfully evocative survivor from the Georgian era, combining fine craftsmanship, historical interest and undeniable charm.
DETAILS:
METAL: Pinchbeck alloy
GEMSTONE: Natural carnelian
SIZE: 2.5cm (1 inch) tall. Carnelian seal 17 x 14.25mm. Oval jump ring 9.25 x 6.15mm
WEIGHT: 7.2 grams
ERA: Georgian Regency, circa 1810-1830
CONDITION: Very good antique condition. The Pinchbeck retains a bright, rich gold colour with only light wear commensurate with age. There is evidence of historic whitish solder where the suspension loop joins the body, which appears to be original to the piece's construction. Under magnification the hand-chased decoration shows gentle softening from more than two centuries of handling, while remaining remarkably crisp overall. The carnelian seal is free of chips or cracks
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring they are ready to wear and enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
