Victorian Etruscan Revival Swallow & Flowers Micromosaic Pendant
Victorian Etruscan Revival Swallow & Flowers Micromosaic Pendant
$3,800.00
Description
DATE: Victorian, c.1870
A fantastic Etruscan Revival pendant dating from the Victorian period, circa 1870. It's crafted in 18 karat gold, with fantastically intricate applied rope and cannetille goldwork around the border, and home to an utterly remarkable micromosaic panel centrepiece depicting a swallow and colourful flowers. Twelve square adornments protrude around the outer edge of the border, each one home to three gold pommels and its own little micromosaic: alternating white flowers on black background, and what appears to be eyes over a turquoise background (similar to the evil eye). It's truly exquisite, a masterpiece of intricate goldwork directly inspired by the ancient Etruscan jewellers, who's work had been unearthed during archaeological digs during the late 18th century, and mind-boggling craftsmanship that went into the construction of the micromosaics.
Birds of all kinds were depicted in Victorian jewellery, but the most common were swallows and doves. Swallows were a very romantic symbol in antique jewellery and were said to represent faithfulness. An item with a swallow on it was presented to a loved one as they set out on a journey or given from the person leaving to the loved ones they left behind. It was a reminder of the love shared and a promise to return home safely.
STONES
Tiny tesserae
MEASUREMENTS
4.5 x 3.8cm (not including bail)
WEIGHT
13.5g
MARKS
No marks present, tests as 18k gold
CONDITION
Very good, one of the border squares has been replaced at some stage in its life. The replacement is enamelled, as opposed to micromosaic (it's an incredibly good repair job). Brooch fittings have been removed from the back.
More From This Era
More Pendants
Follow Us
Dealing Podcast blog instagram TikTok facebook