£695
In stock
An exquisite antique brooch by the famous Australian jewellers ‘Lamborn & Wagner’. This stunning piece features a finely modelled dove holding an envelope that reads ‘Forget Me Not’, set to a billowing surround surround of foliate flowers and leaves, all in buttery 15ct yellow gold.
Following the discovery of gold in Victoria, Australia in 1851 there was an explosion of gold mining that quickly made Melbourne one of the wealthiest cities in the world. The goldrush brought with it jewellers trained in the European style who made use of this sudden abundance to produce exquisite pieces that made maximum use of this luxurious, buttery gold.
As it is unhallmarked, this pieces dates to the earlier portion of the gold rush, around the early 1870s and as such is an important early example of Australian fine jewellery. Lamborn & Wagner were established by William Lamborn & Leopold Wagner and they operated from premises in Lonsdale Street Melbourne only from 1858 to 1885. They were amongst the finest of jewellers making pieces at this time and, though not marked, this brooch is confidently attributed to them as it’s extremely distinctive to their style.
This striking piece looks beautiful worn on a lapel but also looks supremely elegant pinned to a velvet or ribbon choker. It can also be strung on a chain if you pass it through the openwork of the frame. As such this rare beauty is extremely versatile and will be sure to capture admiring looks whenever it’s worn. A great addition to any antique jewellery collection and a certain heirloom for future generations.
For a little more insight into early Australian goldrush jewellery check out this knowledgeable website: https://www.leonardjoel.com.au/newsletter/collectable-19th-century-australian-jewellery/ and for fabulously researched detail about the life of William Lamborn also check out The Art of Mourning who can be found here: https://artofmourning.com/southern-sentimentality-australian-jewels-and-william-lamborn/
ERA: Antique c.1870s
MATERIAL: Unhallmarked but tests at minimum of 15ct gold
SIZE: 3.5 x 3cm
WEIGHT: 6.6grams
CONDITION: Gorgeous antique condition – the bird, envelope, and foliate decoration are extremely finely modelled with crisp detail. The surround is hollow but has no dents, tears, or splits. The gold has an extremely buttery look particular to high quality gold. Simple hook clasp is secure. Only one minute detail to mention is that one or two of the acanthus leaf has some extremely minor discoloration where it joins the frame; I believe this to be original to the piece and I haven’t tried to clean it as I like to leave pieces in their original condition. Only mentioned for utmost accuracy and it’s barely noticeable unless under very close inspection. Overall a stunning example in extremely fine condition.
CARE GUIDANCE: Whilst the clasp is secure I would recommend them as a dress / occasion wear. Absolutely do not immerse in liquids or spray with aerosols or perfumes as this could damage the gold finish. Store in its own box, away from other jewels to avoid any dents / damage to the gold work. This is a beautiful historic piece in fine condition so just needs a little tlc to keep it that way!
Chain is for illustration only.
SHIPPING: Free inside the UK and to the US – Please note that buyers are responsible for any import or customs charges.
| ERA | Victorian |
|---|---|
| METAL | Yellow Gold |
Original price was: £1,145.£1,000Current price is: £1,000.
