Antique Renaissance Cross Pendant Gold Enamel w Victorian Gold Case Unisex (6165

Antique Renaissance cross pendant with later Victorian pendant case. Cross is cloisonne enamel. Case is 18k yellow gold. Cross pendant dates to the 16th century and was probably made in Venice. Case made in Birmingham, England by Coley Brothers, 19th century.

Measurements: Cross measures approximately 2 1/2 inches (a little under 6.5cm) long, not including the bale and a little under 2 inches (5cm) wide. Cross alone weighs 10.1 grams. The case measures approximately 3 1/4 inches (8cm) long and 2 1/2 inches (just under 6.5cm) wide. Gold case weighs 24.4 grams.

Description: The Renaissance era cross pendant is a classic Latin Cross in gilt metal with fabulous polychrome cloisonne enamelling on the upper surface. A black ground with light blue, red, yellow and white fine designs including palmettes, lozenges, rosettes and pellets, all outlined in gold. Exquisitely workmanship. A simple loop for hanging the pendant. A later Victorian case was made to house and protect the rare cross. It is made of 18k yellow gold. The case borders are wide scalloped rich gold with a reserve for housing the cross and spring retaining pin internally. Richly patterned circle around the cross reverts to Renaissance design. The back of the case with fabulous engraved scrolling bands enclosing tiny detailed incised patterns, flowers and foliage. Clearly Renaissance inspired, but Victorian in execution. A central reserve with AW monogram in script. 4 securing screws to the arms (join back and front of the case). Loops for hanging the case as a pendant.

Marks: The Renaissance cross is unmarked. The Victorian case pendant is marked 18 for 18k gold and CYBS for the maker - Coley Brothers who worked in Birmingham during the 19th century.

Condition: good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.

Last few pictures to get idea of size: shown on 'dummy'  with and without case, tied around her neck with a shoelace.

The very last picture shows a pendant from the same period as this cross, found in the V&A Museum, London. Note the similarities in the enamelling.