Antique Georgian micromosaic brooch with very rare depiction of a woman as a miniature portrait, set in 22 carat gold in the Etruscan Revival style. Circa 1830-40. Measures 2 inches long. Outstanding, museum quality micro mosaic, so subtly done that it appears as an oil painting, smoothe to the touch. Tiny tesserae, finely connected to form the image of a woman, dressed in semi Classic Roman robes, typical of the Neo Classical taste of the period. The woman is clearly a historic figure - reminiscent of the great Byzantine mozaic of the Empress Theodora, Justinian''s wife. She wears a white turban set with gold and jewels, a white robe with Royal blue shawl and scarlet sash. She also wears fingerless gloves. Her jewellery includes dangle earrings, a brooch set in the turban and her eyes are underlined with black make-up. The gold mount frame tests for at least 18 carat and probably 22k. Fine granulation and filigree decoration in rings around the oval that slopes inwards, drawing attention to the central figure. The mount is in the Etruscan Revival style with a similar mount shown for a micromosaic Spaniel done by Castellani (plate 56 of Castellani and Giuliano by Geoffrey C Munn). Very good condition. No chips/cracks/losses/restoration found. See THeodora page 49 of book on Costume and Fashion by James Laver. Status: For Sale Reference#: 3740 Condition: good Year: 1830 Title: ANTIQUE GEORGIAN MICRO MOSAIC WOMAN 22K GOLD BROOCH 1830

Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Antique Jewelry