A genuinely striking Victorian / Edwardian, suspected goofus glass, brooch, its convex glass dome enclosing a cold-painted composition of purple and white pansies surrounded by green foliage and scattered buds. The painted decoration beneath the glass retains its colour well, and the twisted rope-effect frame adds a quiet elegance to the oval form.

Goofus glass - cold-painted reverse glass with a metallic backing, most commonly produced in America during the late Victorian period - is consistently popular, and pansy subjects are particularly sought after. The gold metallic backing has deteriorated over time, as is typical and expected of pieces in this technique, and buyers should study the photographs carefully before purchasing.

Product Specifications

• Estimated Era: Late Victorian (c.1880s–1910s)
• Style: Oval Brooch
• Material: Goofus glass in base metal frame
• Colour: Multi
• Decoration: Reverse-painted pansy composition featuring purple and white blooms, green leaves and scattered buds beneath a convex glass dome; twisted rope-effect border to frame
• Maker: Unsigned

Condition Report

• General: Shows the characteristic background deterioration of the goofus glass technique; the gold metallic backing beneath the glass is degraded and mottled throughout, though the painted floral decoration itself remains well-preserved and clearly legible
• Front: Glass dome intact with no cracks observed; pansy and leaf painting in good colour; background metallic backing shows extensive rust-brown discolouration and paint loss across the full field
• Reverse: Frame shows surface oxidation and wear consistent with age
• Mechanism: Simple catch; pin straight and functional

Measurements

• Length: 40mm
• Width: 30mm
• Weight: 9g

Boxes are not included and are for display purposes only.

Please study the photographs carefully and let me know if you have any questions. 👍