ETRUSCAN REVIVAL 1870 Roman Amphora Micro-Mosaic Brooch In 18Kt Yellow Gold

An Etruscan revival micro-mosaic brooch

This is an exceptional little brooch created in Rome Italy during the Victorian (1840-1901) era, back in the 1880. The brooch was masterfully crafted with Etruscan revival patterns in solid rich yellow gold of 18 karats and is embellished with an intricate white micro mosaic, depicting a Roman amphora. The piece is fitted at the reverse with a hinge pin bar with a concealed hook to wear as a brooch. It is in impeccable condition with all the antique aged patina well preserved, all parts are original.

Country: Rome Italy.

Period: Roman, Victorian, Etruscan revival, 1880.

Weight: 8.95 Grams, (5.75 Dwt).

Measurements: 34 mm by 26 mm by 5 mm, (1.34 x 1.02 x 0.20 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped in the pin with the maker's mark monogram, it is unmarked and electronically tested for 18 karats yellow gold with results as follows, ".750/.999 Au".

History Behind This Piece

Between the 1820 and 1890, ancient cities were discovered, such as Troy, Pompeii and Alexandria. Archaeological excavations in Egypt, Greece and Rome, discovered artistic pieces of these ancient cultures. These fabulous discoveries, stimulated cultural trips to these countries, popularly called "grand tour". Being the case that the enthusiast visitors bring back small objects, like souvenirs to be assembled into jewelry. The starting point of these trips were in the cities of Rome and Venice. this is why the craftsmen of these cities created small and interesting objects with ancient characteristics like this brooch.

Revival jewelry

The styles from the renaissance and Middle Ages, begun in the 1850’s, The Renaissance and Egyptian revivals were joined by a classical revival of Greek and Etruscan styles to conform a new aesthetic. As a result of the construction work on the Suez Canal in the mid-1860’s and the Egyptian excavations of Auguste Mariette and the resultant exhibit of Egyptian treasures at the exposition Universelle in 1867, a fascination for all things Egyptian and ancient cultures developed. Many nineteenth-century jewelers, were inspired to create their own versions of these ancient pieces, hence “Etruscan Revival”, the most famous being the House of Castellani. 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.

Collateral: This Etruscan Revival micro-mosaic brooch is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.

Condition: The overall condition of this Etruscan Revival micro-mosaic brooch is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the gold and all parts are secured in the settings. This brooch was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: P112425AAEN/.2151