-Roman 1880 Etruscan Revival Mechanical Scarab Brooch In 18Kt Gold With Opals
Etruscan revival mechanical beetle brooch.
Fabulous antique piece, created in Rome Italy in the 19th century, circa 1870-1880. This magnificent brooch has been made in the shape of a scarab, with patterns of Etruscan and renaissance revival. Carefully crafted with multiples parts, made-ups in solid rich yellow gold of 18 karats which are finished with textured and incised designs. The wings of the scarab can be opened and close by a mechanical push button in the shape of a pistil to discover an arrangement of gemstones. It is embellished with a great assortment of natural earth mined opals and rubies. It is fitted at the reverse with a hinged pin bar and a mechanical security lock.
Opals : The body is mounted in millegrain settings, with 24 calibrated round cabochon cut of 4 mm carved from natural opals, with a weight of 4.80 carats.
Rubies: The eyes are mounted in bezel, 2 round faceted cut red rubies, 0.10 carats.
Birthstone: Opals for the month of October.
Weight: 18.20 Grams, (11.67 Dwt).
Measurements: 44 mm by 32 mm by 12 mm (1.73 x 1.26 x 0.47 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark, the mark for the assay of the 18kt gold. ".750".
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: 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 opals and all parts are secured in the settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P101023ANNA/.4374
