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Antique Victorian 18K Gold Carved Shell Cameo Papal Brooch & Earrings Suite

About the Item

A Victorian shell, and yellow gold brooch and earrings, each with a carved shell panel depicting the then Pope, set in 18 karat yellow gold, with 18 karat yellow gold pin and fittings. This stunning Victorian era suite comprises a brooch and pair of earrings, depicting Pope Pius IX (1846-1878). This suite was part of the collection of Siegfried Classen in Cologne. This suite may have been given during a Papal audience in the Vatican City, to a wealthy, important visitor. This suite is rare, the likes of which I have never seen before. The brooch is formed as an oval piece of carved shell, the warm brown tone, and the luminous white contrasting perfectly. The carving of Pope Pius IX is exquisite, and beautifully fine. The cameo panel is bezel set in yellow gold, with elegant detailing to the bezel, creating the look of sparkle. This is further surrounded by a lace-like beaded border, in yellow gold. The brooch is fitted with a C-shaped clasp and pin in yellow gold. The earrings each feature an oval panel of shell, carved with the likeness of the then Pope. The panels are set akin to the brooch and completed with a similar lace-like adornment. A circular panel of carved shell depicting the Vatican City’s coat of arms (a pair of crossed keys beneath a tiara) tops off the earrings, connected to the cameo of the Pope with a beautiful, twisted rope hinged section, which gives the earrings their articulation and movement. The earrings are fitted with hook backs in yellow gold. The earrings are in great condition. There are signs of repair to the back of the brooch, by way of old solder, lead solder would have been used to avoid any damage occurring to the shell cameo. The top left section of the lace like adornment on the brooch has lifted slightly, but due to the design and shape of the brooch this does not notice. There is no damage to any of the shell panels, and minimal wear. Wear and tear acquiescent with age. Brooch measurements (excluding pin and fittings): 35mm wide, 41.5mm long, 14.5mm deep Earring measurements, each: 21.3mm wide, 56.5mm long, 7mm deep Gross weight: 24.32g Earrings weight, gross: 11.34g Hallmarks: none, tests as 18 karat yellow gold, circa 1870
  • Metal:
  • Weight:
    24.32 g
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    C. 1870
  • Condition:
    Repaired: There are signs of repair to the back of the brooch, by way of old solder, which would have been used to avoid damage to the shell cameo. The top left section of the lace like adornment on the brooch has lifted slightly, but isn't noticeable. Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: REF11401stDibs: LU4056222651652

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