Phenomenal Foster & Bailey Sterling Brooch

Jewelry : Vintage : Pins/Brooches : Sterling Silver : Signed

 

This piece is truly stunning. I'll let the photos do most of the talking, as words cannot properly describe the beauty in this turn of the century piece by Foster and Bailey.

Foster & Bailey (originally called White and Foster) was founded in 1873. The hallmark seen on this piece the F&B inside a flag was used beginning in 1878, and its use continued into the 20th century when the firm became known as Foster & Bro. Co. Eventually, the flag was dropped from the hallmark. The company went out of business sometime around 1950.

The details of this piece that place it between 1878 and the early 1900's include the long pin, which extends beyond the edge of the piece, the hinge and c-style clasp.

I've not seen another piece, so old, and yet retaining the striking details from its origin. I've only seen one other similar piece on the market, but the details were very worn. On this piece, single blades of grass are very clear and even the details on the rope holding the swing are present.

This brooch, a beautiful depiction of love, measures 1.4 inches in diameter and is in as near mint condition as an antique can be. Visual inspection of the front and back under magnification reveal no damage.

There is a rich patina, which I gently cleaned to reveal some of the details, but there is so much more left to reveal, and I will leave that to the lucky, new owner.

Overall, this is one of the most beautiful treasures I have to date.

Item ID: PB1359

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