Circa 1850 this statuesque gilt metal and black enamel Victorian mourning brooch features a locket compartment in the front containing "Prince-of-Wales Feathers" hair-work. The curls of hair are decorated in seed pearls hinting at tears shed for the deceased.
The front of the brooch is decorated in black enamel with puffy rococo style flourishes in gold gilded metal. To the reverse the brooch is fitted with a pin and hook closure and a safety chain for added security.
Cosmetically the brooch looks great, it's In good antique condition with wear and tear but still in a collectable state. Shows age appropriate patina and wear to the gilded metal work on the front. The reverse shows heavier wear like scratches and tooling marks etc. The hinge and pin have possibly been replaced (a long time ago) because the hinge seems too wide for the thin pin but it still a secure fastener. Please refer to the photos. Note any dark spots are reflections.
A very cool example of Victorian "Grand Period" mourning jewellery, an era when large elaborate pieces were needed to correspond with the huge crinoline dresses worn at the time!
DETAILS:
METAL: gilt (not gold)
MEASUREMENTS: 2-1/2"/6cm wide, 2"/5cm top to bottom, the hair compartment measures 1-1/2"/4cm x 1"/2.5cm
WEIGHT: 33.6 grams
DATE: Victorian, circa 1850
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear or give as a gift.
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Materials: Gilt.