SALE Early Victorian Bog Oak Serpents or Snakes Brooch

Jewelry : Antique : Victorian

 

This is a dandy early example of bog oak. This is thought to be an Irish piece and estimated to date from circa 1830s. Bog oak is ancient wood from trees that fell long ago in the peat bogs of Europe, especially Ireland. The trees were petrified after centuries underground, resulting is a dark dense carvable wood, akin to an early stage of turning into coal.

The brooch is set in a silver plated setting with old T shaped pin hinge and C clasp on the back. It is possible that the brooch is an early conversion from another use because I detect signs of something that was filed off of either end.

The setting holds a lobed carving of a pair of serpents or snakes on either side of a raised domed flower form. The brooch measures 1" x 1.125" excluding the extended pin stem.

The serpent subject matter is uncommon.

Item ID: Ebo408

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Now on sale!