An exceptionally rare and impressive early Berlin ironwork brooch, dating to circa 1800 and belonging to the earliest Neo-Classical phase of this distinctive form of jewellery.
Of spectacular size, the brooch is finely cast in black iron with an elaborate openwork design of scrolling foliage, stylised leaves and symmetrical Neo-Classical ornament. At its centre is a finely modelled classical female bust, set against a highly polished steel oval plaque and framed by a delicate beaded border. The combination of intricate black ironwork with the reflective polished steel is particularly striking.
This is an unusually early example of Berlin ironwork. The manufacture of cast-iron jewellery developed in Silesia in the late 1790s, particularly at the Gleiwitz Foundry, before production was established at the Royal Berlin Foundry in 1804. Early examples were distinctly Neo-Classical, incorporating classical figures, medallions and openwork ornament. This brooch's architectural composition, classical female portrait and restrained Neo-Classical decoration are characteristic of this early phase.
Berlin iron jewellery subsequently became closely associated with the Napoleonic Wars. Between 1813 and 1815, Prussian citizens were encouraged to donate their gold and silver jewellery to support the war effort, receiving iron jewellery in return. Some pieces were inscribed Gold gab ich für Eisen (“I gave gold for iron”), and Berlin iron became a powerful symbol of patriotism as well as a fashionable form of jewellery.
The present brooch appears to pre-date that famous patriotic period, making its early Neo-Classical character particularly noteworthy. Its exceptional scale, intricate casting and remarkably well-preserved detail make it an important and highly collectible example of early iron jewellery.
The reverse retains its original sturdy curved pin stem with T-hinge and C-clasp.
DETAILS
METAL: Berlin ironwork — black-lacquered cast iron with polished steel
SIZE: 2¼ inches / 5.6 cm tall × 1¼ inches / 3 cm wide
DATE: Circa 1800, Georgian
WEIGHT: 15.6 grams
MARKS: None visible
CONDITION: Very good antique condition, with surface wear and an aged patina consistent with its considerable age. The original black finish has naturally mellowed in places, adding to the character of this exceptionally early piece.
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