Exceptional early 19th century family heirloom, a gold mourning cross comprised of ten circular hair compartments, most with a gold initial, the central surrounded by pearls, each representing a deceased member of the family. The cross was probably added to over time; there are engraved initials “T&J” on the reverse. Very good condition; some wear to gold and dirt in hair compartments; small split to the gold backing between the central and immediately adjoining disc -- age related wear bu ...click for details
Poignant Georgian mourning brooch, in sepia and chopped hair on ivory, depicting a woman clutching her breast in sorrow. Beautifully made: she’s bordered by gilt and verre eglomise, scalloped rose gold bezel, and tiny seed pearls. Lovely bright cut design on the reverse. Great condition; clasp has been reinforced; slight wear to reverse. Measures 1 1/8".
An incomparable Georgian mourning brooch depicting a shepherdess and a lamb, circa 1780. What make this brooch so remarkable are the three-dimensional construction, the unusual material, and the touching period symbolism. The shepherdess and lamb are composed of white molded paste, probably papier mache. The shepherdess’ arm and lamb’s foreleg are actually raised from the background, as is the tree, which is made of the hair of the deceased. The shepherdess holds a gold wire crook in one han ...click for details
Extraordinary Georgian rose gold mourning brooch, depicting a griffin and the initials “JP” in gold over a plaited bed of hair, surrounded by borders of blue enamel and tiny pearls. The reverse is inscribed “John Payton Ob 13 Mar 1784 AET 27”. Very brief internet research turns up a Payton family crest featuring a gold griffin. The griffin is a mythical creature, with the head, wings and talons of an eagle and the body and hind legs of a lion – the best of the birds and the beasts. As a devic ...click for details
Extraordinary English bracelet clasp with an enigmatic depiction of a pair of burning hearts atop a wreathed monument, entwined by a serpent and bearing the inscription “In Spite of Envy”, circa 1780. Painting in watercolor and sepia on ivory, this miniature is surrounded by seed pearls and set in 18k rose gold. Much of the symbolism of this piece has become murky in the 200 plus years since it was created, and one could interpret it in different ways – as a mourning piece or as a sentimental ...click for details
Spectacular pair of 18th century bracelet clasps, featuring a pair of lovers. He looks pensively into the distance, a book at his elbow; she gazes into her lap at a letter. They are charmingly drawn in monochromatic watercolor and set into rose gold bright cut mounts. Clasps are intact, tongue and all. Excellent condition. Each measures 1 5/8 by 1 1/4”.
Wonderful early 19th century cut steel cross and steel link chain. Each tiny steel stud is faceted and set into a carved surround. Chain features alternating link patterns. Good condition; wear and patina commensurate with age. Cross measures 2 ¼”; chain is 45”.
Exceptional Georgian mourning ring, featuring plaited brown hair overlaid with a gold anchor and chain and a blue enamel banner with the motto "cuncta mea mecum" in gold letters. A bit of research reveals that this motto is associated with the crest of the Stedmans, a family with roots in both Scotland and England – this ring probably came from the latter. The anchor could symbolize either hope and steadfastness or it could indicate a naval career or death at sea. Excellent conditio ...click for details
Rare and beautiful Georgian sentimental bracelet clasp, depicting a scene with a woman and a pavilion labeled “Friendship” amid a wooded landscape. The extraordinary thing about this piece is that this intricate scene is completely embroidered in different colors of hair! The artistry is incredible. Great condition; the clasp is attached to an old velvet ribbon. Measures 1 5/8” across.
Fabulous Georgian glass intaglio ring, depicting the head of an 18th century gentleman, possibly by famous Scottish carver James Tassie, certainly in his style. Carnelian colored glass set in a gold reeded band. Great condition. Size 5 3/4. Stone measures 7/8”.
