An outstanding 1840’s hand painted marriage portrait of enamel on a jet disk. We herein are presented with a young bride, in the fashion of an early renaissance presented in the annunciation painting. In classic Italian manner, she’s shown on the exterior of the building holding flowers. We can see in her bouquet that she has roses, forget-me-nots, and perhaps even a peony. The visual tradition of this special brooch owes a debt to  The Cestello Annunciation by Sandro Botticelli, in which the angel Gabriel presents a lily to the Virgin Mother signify her immaculate conception. The work and I believe that theme is repeated here, with our subject sitting in as the Virgin, holding flowers. I've included the Botticelli in the image index. So wonderfully rendered, this portrait is assuredly of museum quality. 

Materials and Features: 

14ct gold, hand painted enamel, jet

Age/Origin: 

Circa the 1840’s, possibly English with a later American backing

Marks:

“14k”

Measurements:

Dimensions: 47mm x 47mm

Condition: Excellent condition. The backing might be a later addition. Minor associated age wear. 

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.