Description
Very high quality cut steel brooch, mounted on sterling leaf with safety catch, the leaf of later manufacturing, the original cut steel dating to early 19th century, possibly earlier. Measures 2 1/2" in diameter. The leaf backing has a sterling mark, very faint & difficult to photograph, & has an attached safety catch which is in good working condition. in the center is a small rod, which probably is a support to hold the cut steel brooch in place. The work on this brooch is particularly fine, with engraved details in the center flower, & all of the cut geometric shapes are crisp & precise, giving it a great deal of sparkle. Note that the slight pinkish color that is visible in some photos is reflection only, it is quite silver in color, with darker accents. Condition is very good, the steel sections are clean & without rust or pitting, which is often an issue as the steel is prone to rust when exposed to humidity & water. Well mounted, it can be attached to fabric without worry of it becoming loose. As it is an antique item, it is sold as is. Cut steel jewelry & ornamentation came into fashion in the late 17th century, & was frequently crafted into items to be worn, from small pieces of jewelry to large tiaras & necklaces. When finely cut with many facets, the jewelry had a sparkle that mimiced fine gems, & became the rage throughout the fashion world of the era. From Great Britain to France, Germany, & Russia, jewelry & other items were worn, & some larger items such as the boxes & mirrors & other fine items from Tula in Russia were most desirable. More pedestrian items like shoe buckles were produced in great numbers, but usually in the simplest forms. The finest jewelers throughout Europe made cut steel jewelry, & those items are considered to be as fine as items made of precious metals with gemstones. Please see all photos for details & email any questions. Shipping via USPS & Fedex with tracking & insurance. Shipping delays may occur. Antique Cut Steel Brooch On Sterling Leaf, Safety Catch, Fine Quality Details, Ca 1840, Georgian, Continental, Or Russian
