On offer is a stunning and rare antique Victorian mourning brooch from the Aesthetic Movement period, circa 1870–1890. This beautifully hand-crafted brooch exemplifies the rich sentimentality and ornate metalwork typical of late 19th-century mourning jewellery. Though unmarked, the piece is likely crafted from sterling silver or a high-quality white metal, and displays a deep patina from age, contributing to its charm and authenticity.

The domed central panel is intricately hand-engraved with a vivid foliate motif — a dense pattern of ivy leaves, a popular Victorian symbol of eternal life, remembrance, and fidelity. The engraving is of exceptional quality, sharp and detailed, reflecting the refined techniques of the era. The surrounding decorative border features a tiered design with applied ball accents and architectural-style etching, lending the brooch a grand, almost regal appearance.

Originally intended as a mourning keepsake, the reverse would have held a lock of hair or memento beneath a glass compartment — now lost to time. The recessed chamber remains visible and intact, adding historical context and interest to the piece. It secures with its original ‘C’ clasp and extended pin, a telltale feature of authentic 19th-century jewellery.

📌 Key Features:
✅ Original Victorian mourning brooch – Circa 1870–1890
✅ Aesthetic Movement design with deeply engraved ivy leaf detail
✅ Ornate ball and border embellishment – Exceptional craftsmanship
✅ Likely unmarked silver or white metal with beautiful aged patina
✅ Original compartment to rear (glass missing, hair removed)
✅ Classic C-clasp and long pin – Fully intact and functional
✅ Dimensions: 45mm across
✅ Excellent condition for age – Ready to wear or display

📚 Historical Interest:
This brooch is a textbook example of sentimental Victorian jewellery and reflects the 19th-century fascination with remembrance, mourning, and symbolic ornament. The use of ivy represents eternal attachment, and the craftsmanship aligns with the values of the Aesthetic Movement, which prized beauty, nature, and detailed handwork over industrial mass production.

Mourning jewellery like this would have been worn close to the heart, often by widows or family members during extended periods of bereavement. Pieces of this calibre were not mass-produced and are now increasingly scarce — especially in such preserved condition.

🎁 Perfect For:
✔️ Collectors of Victorian and Aesthetic Movement jewellery
✔️ Antique jewellery enthusiasts and historians
✔️ Sentimental gifts with deep meaning and symbolism
✔️ Period costume or historical re-enactment accessories
✔️ Unique heirloom-quality investment piece

This is an exceptional and rare opportunity to acquire a genuine Victorian mourning brooch with beautiful symbolism and character — a treasured link to the past.

📦 Shipping Information:
We ship worldwide. Postage rates will depend on your location and preferred delivery service — you will be shown the exact shipping cost before confirming your purchase, ensuring full transparency and peace of mind.

📌 Don’t miss this rare piece of 19th-century mourning history — an evocative and timeless collector’s item. Add it to your collection or give a meaningful gift that carries real emotional weight.

stock code 060525