The Details...
Although unhallmarked, this brooch has been tested as being constructed from silver. It features a Renaissance Revival design. The piece is set with round and oval flat cut garnets, square and rectangular cut emeralds and seed pearls. The piece is detailed with navy blue and white enamel. The brooch fastens with a 'C' catch and the fastening pin is attached to the brooch with a tube hinge. It also features a safety chain, although this is a later addition. It would be possible to wear this piece as a pendant too. The piece measures 7cm x 4cm.
To view a clip of this brooch, click here: Renaissance Revival Brooch
A Short History...
The art and design of the Renaissance became popular from around 1829 after the House of Bapst were commissioned to re-set some of the French crown jewels for the Duchesse du Berry's Mary Stuart themed quadrille. The vogue for Renaissance inspired jewels from this point saw the skill of enamelling being re-introduced and perfected, as can be seen in this beautiful brooch. The jewellers of Austro-Hungary were particularly fond of creating Renaissance style pieces. The garnets and emeralds that could be found in the area lent themselves perfectly to the red and green rich designs. Indeed, the emeralds in this piece are most likely from Habachtal in the Austrian Tyrol - a source of low-grade, pale opaque emeralds.
Wear it With...
Brooches are an exceptionally simple way to add instant vintage styling to any look and interest to plain materials. Pin this piece onto a hat, lapel, collar, cuff, scarf, sleeve, waistline or bag - wear alone or with a selection.
