A wonderful Georgian-era mourning locket brooch,modeled in 18k gold, and decorated with a carved-and-enameledurn motif, in three colors (light blue, white, and black). This brooch opens, at the side, to reveal a hidden compartment, where one might keep a lock of hair, a scrap of fabric, or a photo.It is engraved "13 May, 1801" on the backside, in period script, and with the name "Wilhelm," on the inside. We love the large scale of the urn, here, the finely engraved details, and the many linear gestures— vertical, horizontal, bowed— that come together to create the scene. The brooch's blue and white enamel, and the bold graphic quality ofits "illustration,"creates asurprisingly modern impression.This is a rarity. Its condition is excellent with very light surface scratching.

We have cleaned this brooch but have not polished it. It could easily be converted for wear as a pendant locket, but we have chosen to leave it as-is. If you are interested in a conversion, please inquire.

Materials

18k gold
Enamel

Age

c. 1801

Dimensions

Measures approx28.3 x 15.8 mm (about 1 1/10" x 3/5").