An early Victorian mourning brooch, circa 1840–1860. A rectangular bevelled glass panel is set within a richly cast Rococo Revival gilt metal frame decorated with C-scrolls, acanthus foliage and bead borders. Beneath the glass lies a woven basket-weave hairwork panel in dark brown hair, well-preserved and clearly visible.
The reverse is plain gilt metal with a simple C-catch and straight pin fitting, consistent with early Victorian manufacture. No hallmarks; the metal is gilt brass or pinchbeck, typical of mourning jewellery of this period.
Approximately 40mm wide x 32mm high. The glass panel has surface scratches consistent with age, shown in the photographs. The pin and catch are functional. A characterful and wearable piece of early Victorian sentimental jewellery.
Item Specifics:
• Type: Mourning brooch
• Style: Rococo Revival / early Victorian
• Metal: Gilt metal (pinchbeck / gilt brass)
• Decoration: Woven basket-weave hairwork under bevelled glass
• Period: c.1840–1860
• Hallmarks: None
• Fastening: C-catch, straight pin (intact)
• Condition: Good; glass scratched, hairwork intact
• Dimensions: ~40mm x 32mm
Keywords:
early Victorian mourning brooch gilt pinchbeck woven hair basket weave glass Rococo Revival antique memento mori hairwork sentimental jewellery