As a lady of means at the end of the nineteenth century, chances are you would be wearing this conspicuous brooch. Or, perhaps, you would be searching all of the high end jewelry stores in Paris (or elsewhere) to secure one for your collection. For that piece of fine jewelry was one the many social icons of that period. In the France of the XIXth century, this beautiful brooch was called a "devant de corsage."

Crafted during the Napoleonic III empire, in 18K solid gold, this is a large piece, measuring 7.8cm, including the drops, and weighing a hefty 20 grams. To be sure, this is not a small token of success, but a rather ostentatious display of wealth.

The brooch is covered with pearls staggered over three levels forming a medallion of filigree gold, designed with a festoons and volutes adornment. The round medallion will command everyone's attention the moment you step into a room, as it is supporting five beautiful drops of pearls and enamel which are cleverly attached to a filigree base. It is to be noted that the brooch is in an unusually excellent original condition, given its age, with no pearl missing and very little damage on the black enamel tracery (taille d'épargne). We have seen no evidence of any part being replaced.

The back of this majestic piece, in addition to showing how well it has been crafted, features a hanging top which can transform this lovely piece into a pendant. The C clasp is there to remind us of that wonderful period when maids dressed their beautiful and demanding ladies. The 18K solid yellow gold, with its slightly pinkish hue, gives this brooch a warm and wealthy appearance. This piece is stunning!

Size:
total size: 7.8cm (3')
diameter of the top medallion: 40mm (1 5/8)
length of the drops: 35mm
Weight: 20grams
Material: 18K solid gold, 39 cultured pearls and natural half pearls, enamel
Period: Napoleon, Empire, Victorian
Origin: France
Provenance: an estate sale
Condition: excellent estate with very minimum use

additional remarks: This item is guaranteed to be made out 18K solid gold, and has been acid tested.
N.b.: We guarantee the authenticity of our items. Each one of them has been evaluated by our experts and checked by our competent jeweler.