Black Glass Victorian Brooch with Floral Bouquet in Ornate Gilt Frame

The brooch is large, 2" x 1 1/2" (50mm x 40mm). The glass is bezel set in a square frame. The trio of flowers; a deep pink rose, blue aster and white mallow, are exceptionally well painted. Under magnification, one can see the brush strokes. The painting seems to be an enamel fused to the black glass,and it is finished to give a perfect smooth-as-glass finish.

The frame of setting has minor issues - the gilt has minor wear and parts of the bezel are imperfect. The clasp has been professionally repaired, and the glass portion was probably removed during soldering for protection. The hinge is original, in mid-late Victorian style. The pin stem and clasp seem to have been repaired in about 1910 - 1920.

There are minor scratches to the surface of the glass. These are more visible in the photo (due to the flash) but can barely be seen except under magnification. The painting is not affected.

Item ID: J - 1304