Byzantine Revival Micro-Mosaic Stick Pin by Antonio Carli

About the Item

A Byzantine revival micro-mosaic stick pin in the form of an oil lamp, attributed to Antonio Carli, the circular micro mosaic panel depicting a multi coloured insect on white background, surrounded by red, blue and white mosaic panels to a yellow gold mount with twisted wire and palmette decorations, all to a yellow gold pin, circa 1860, gross weight 5.6 grams, compare with similar style oil-lamp pendant made by Antonio Carli, illustrated in the catalogue The Art of the Jeweller, the Hull Grundy Gift to the British Museum, Hugh Tait ed., Vol I, p. 153, no. 969 and Vol. II, p. 252, no. 969. British Museum number of a similar item - 1978,1002.126. This exquisite stick pin was made by the revivalist jewellery Antonio Carli. This piece is in the form of a Byzantine oil lamp, decorated on the top with a palmette motif. The body of the lamp is decorated with extremely fine micro mosaic, an ancient technique from Italy that experienced a resurgence of popularity in the mid nineteenth century. The mosaic features a complex pattern of red and white to the top and blue and white to the bottom. In the centre is a detailed mosaic insect. This wonderful and historic piece comes from the collection of Bentley & Skinner, the London jewellers by appointment to both Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and is a fine collector’s item. Should you choose to make this purchase we would be delighted to send it to you in a Bentley & Skinner handmade leather case packed in a gift-wrapped Bentley & Skinner black and gold presentation box. Shortly afterwards we will send you on a valuation for insurance purposes for your reference and safekeeping.

Metal:

Yellow Gold,Gold

Style:

Revival

Period:

1860-1869

Date of Manufacture:

circa 1860

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use.

Seller Location:

London, GB