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A fascinating and deeply personal Victorian mourning brooch dating to circa 1880s, preserving both a photographic portrait of a woman and an intricate arrangement of human hair.
The front features a delicate hairwork memorial motif beneath domed glass, with two looped sections of hair flanking an elegant central design. It is surrounded by a warm rose gold coloured inner frame, which may possibly be 9ct gold; however, due to its position within the brooch it is too difficult to test safely, so the gold content cannot be confirmed. The hairwork is framed by a polished black surround, believed to be black glass or possibly onyx. The metal setting has been acid tested and tests as sterling silver.
The reverse is equally special, containing an original period photographic portrait of an elderly woman beneath glass. Together, the photograph and preserved hair make this an evocative example of Victorian memorial jewellery, created to keep a tangible remembrance of a loved one close.
DetailsMaterial: Sterling silver setting and rose gold coloured inner frame, possibly 9ct gold but untestedDimensions: Approx. 4 cm × 3 cm (1.57\" x 1.18\")Fastening: Long pin with tube hinge and C-style catchEra: Victorian, circa 1880sHallmarks: noneWeight: 13.78 gramsOrigin: Sourced in France
Condition: Good antique condition considering its approximately 140 year age. There are age related marks and wear throughout, including a few tiny chips and scratches to the black glass/possible onyx surround, as visible in the photographs. The photograph and hairwork also show the natural ageing expected of such an old memorial piece. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.
US Buyers: Kindly note that due to the new tariffs parcels from New Zealand can only be sent to the US by NZ Post Express service including tracking and insurance. This is very expensive but the only option available. Therefore I kindly ask you not to comment on the postage fees. All import charges, tariffs and duties will be charged to the receiver and are not included in the shipping cost.
All other international buyers: Shipping willbe from New Zealand byNZ Courier Tracked Economy Post including tracking and insurance.General Information: Please note that any import duties, taxes or charges are not included in the item price or the shipping cost. These charges are the buyer\'s responsibility and please check with your country\'s customs office to determine what the additional cost could be prior to offerding or buying.
