A beautifully made antique Victorian piqué brooch, finely decorated with contrasting silver and gold-tone pinchbeck metal inlay in an elegant Maltese cross form.
Each of the four arms is inset with delicate floral and foliate decoration, worked in tiny applied and inlaid metal details against a dark ground. The combination of silver-coloured and warm gilt / brass-toned decoration creates a particularly striking effect and is typical of high-quality Victorian piqué work.
The central boss is finished with a inlay star motif, completing the bold symmetrical design.
Presented in good antique condition overall with expected signs of age and wear.
There is general rubbing, tarnishing, surface marking and patination to the metalwork. Some of the inlay shows minor age-related wear, and there may be tiny losses or slight movement to individual decorative elements consistent with an antique piece of this type.
The brooch remains very decorative and displays extremely well.
No polishing or restoration has been attempted.
Sold as seen.
Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description and condition report.
A lovely example for collectors of Victorian piqué jewellery, antique brooches, inlaid jewellery, Maltese cross designs and 19th-century decorative arts.
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The brooch will be carefully protected in a jewellery box and securely packed with ample cushioning to ensure safe delivery.
Please complete payment within 48 hours unless prior arrangements have been made.
I regularly list Victorian jewellery, piqué pieces, mourning jewellery, antique brooches and other unusual period items.