Circa 1790, an authentic and extremely rare Berlin ironwork brooch. The brooch is a spectacular size and cast in a openwork neo-classical design which is characteristic of early pieces. The centre of the brooch is set in a female cameo bust against a mirrored polished steel oval plaque. The reverse has a sturdy curved pin stem with a T-hinge and C-clasp.
The manufacture of Berlin iron jewellery reached its peak between 1813 and 1815, when the Prussian royal family urged all citizens to contribute their gold and silver jewellery to fund the Napoleonic wars. In return people were given iron jewellery often with the inscription Gold gab ich für Eisen (I gave gold for iron). Until then iron jewellery had only been worn during mourning periods but it suddenly became a symbol of patriotism and loyalty, with its obvious aesthetic appeal it became popular overnight!
This Berlin ironwork brooch is such an exciting discovery and rare to find outside of museum collections, mainly in Europe. Steeped in history and beautiful to behold she's a collectors dream piece, perfect for the connoisseur!
DETAILS:
METAL: Berlin ironwork (black-lacquered cast iron)
SIZE: 2-1/4"/5.6cm tall, 1-1/4"3cm wide
DATE: circa 1790, Georgian
WEIGHT: 15.6 grams
MARKS: none visible
CONDITION: in very good antique condition showing wear consistent with age.
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.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
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Materials: Berlin Iron, Steel.