Swiss Enamel - 18k Brooch with a Picture of Berne Switzerland Country Side

The broach measures 2 inches by 1 1/4 inch wide without the bale. The brooch is all 18k yellow gold. The detailed country scene is captured by the enamel on metal technique in multiple colors of enamel. Each color has to be fired one by one. You can see 2 figures walking in the country along side a meandering stream. In the distance the enamel on metal picture shows a house with the smoke billowing from it chimney.

The enamel on metal picture is set in the middle of an 18k yellow gold frame. There are no marks but the metal tests as 18k. Around the outside edge of the enamel on metal picture is a border made up of a scallop design of brilliant red enamel edged in gold and white enamel.

The enamel picture with its enamel border is set in an openwork 18k gold frame with which has white and black enamel decoration along with some small flowers done in enamel.

On the back of the brooch there is a plaque with french words written in script identify the picture as a picture of the canton of Berne.

On the back of the brooch is an extra long pin which locks into a c-clasp to keep the brooch safe.

The brooch dates to the 1850s. Use the zoom mode to get a close look at enamel work. These Swiss enamels are getting harder and harder to find. They are being snatched up to go into private collections. The only reason I could let this one go is that I have another one.

Item ID: 18177