Victorian 1860 Etruscan Revival Pendant Brooch In 18Kt Yellow Gold With Coral Carving Of Persephone
Rare Victorian Etruscan revival pendant-brooch with coral
An impressive British piece from the Victorian era (1840-1901). This rare pendant-brooch was crafted back in the 1840's-1860's, with Etruscan Revival patterns in solid yellow gold of 18 karats. The frame is fully decorated around, with a dotted and millegrain designs. It is suited, with a hinged horizontal pin with security lock to wear as a brooch and a movable convertible bale to wear into a chain.
The main element, is the exceptional three-dimensional carved piece, depicting the portrait bust of the goddess Persephone, facing thee-quarter left, with ivy leaves and grapes decorating her hair.
The coral piece was carved in Italy in a previous period, probably late 17th century and was remounted later, in this piece into a bezel. The carving is outstanding, realized with excellent craftsmanship and extraordinary skills. Was made from a very large piece of Mediterranean pink reddish coral and have a diameter of 42 mm (1.65 Inches).
Have a total weight of 34 Grams and a diameter of 51 mm (2 Inches).
Persephone, was the goddess queen of the Spring season and the underworld, wife of the god Haides (Hades). She was also the goddess of spring growth, who was worshipped alongside her mother Demeter in the Eleusinian Mysteries. Persephone was titled Kore (Core) (the Maiden) as the goddess of spring's bounty.
Note: Many nineteenth-century jewelers, the most famous being the House of Castellani, were inspired to create their own versions of these ancient pieces, hence “Etruscan Revival.” Characteristics of Etruscan style jewelry include use of high karat gold and semi-precious stones like lapis, malachite and agates, and most distinguishingly, the use of intricate filigree and granulation.
The Victorian, era is one of the most influenced and influential periods of antique jewelry. This period is defined by the British monarch, in this case, Alexandrina Victoria, the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, as well as the Empress of India, years 1837-1901. There are 3 sub-periods within this era. First, the early, Romantic period, which is soaked in traditions, natural motifs in gold and silver, clear stones only being worn during the day and colored gems by night.
The second being the Grand or mourning period, which coincides with the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert the consort, who died in December of 1861. This period included large, dark, somber, dramatic jewelry, with a lot of black onyx, jet wood, amethyst, garnet and gold. This lasted until 1880's, when the aesthetic period of jewelry began.
The Late or third stage of the Victorian period, use more complex and feminine motifs, returning to the natural, including many floral and celestial designs, with more decadent gemstones, lasting until the turn of the century. The Victorian era of jewelry includes many movements found in other countries, including revivals such as the Etruscan the Roman and the Egyptian as well as the Art Nouveau, Liberty style and Arts and Crafts design movements which lead into the beginning of the twentieth century.
It is in perfect condition, with great eye appeal. The mounting has the original antique patina and the carving don't have any issues.
Collateral: It is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this brooch is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the gold. The gemstone, are secured in the setting. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P0000XOEN/.8173
