This particular Pietra Dura brooch is an exquisite example of the craftmanship that is pietra dura mosaic. It is one of only a few which feature the magnolia flower. Most feature more obscure flowers.
The attention to detail, which has gone into this brooch and into picking each piece of hardstone, makes the tone of the final image reminiscent of a Vermeer or Rembrandt painting.
It may be by maker Enrico Bosi, who was one of a few who used the Magnolia as motif. Though this is unconfirmed.
The style of pietra dura jewellery was developed throughout the 1800s, and many pieces were more crudely put together, and with brighter colours, often offering a less real-life picture than the one seen here.
This is a magnificent example of pietra dura jewellery, and one that leaves the viewer both mesmerized by its beauty and transported to the time from which it hails.
Magnolia Pietra Dura Brooch set in a 18ct Gold and Silver Frame, ca. 1870
Condition
Very good antique condition. Normal signs of age and wear. Does have a small replacement-pin in the hinge, which is not original. It works absolutely fine. Please see pictures.
Marks
The brooch is entirely unmarked, but the frame around the mosaic tests as 18ct gold and silver. The bottom layer scrolls of the frame are made in silver, whereas the upper layer fine scrolls and beads are made from 18ct gold.
Measurements
Width, pin-wise: 4,6 cm / 1.8 in
Height: 4,1 cm / 1.6 in
Weight: 11 g / 0.4 oz
