Antique Renaissance Revival Neo Gothic Brooch attrib Froment-Meurice Wiese(6214)

Antique Renaissance Revival Neo Gothic brooch. Silver, enamel, gems. Made in France first half of 19th century (circa 1835 - 1848). Attributed to Francois-Desire Froment-Meurice and workshop of Jules Wiese. 

Measurements:

Approximately 2 3/4 inches (a little under 7cm) long. Weighs 31.1 grams.   

Description:

Made in France during the first half of the 19th century. Made largely of silver with hints that parts were once highlighted with gilding. The brooch depicts a pair of angels with upraised wings, one holding a large crucifix, one with a large religious censor hanging from her belt. Gems adorn the bottom and top scrolls of the brooch. We tested the gems and while some are clarly paste, some appear to be natural. This is typrical of French provincial enamel work. 

The center of the brooch is in black enamel with gilding, red and white enamel decoration and paste highlights. We originally thought this might be a marriage, but have subsequently discovered other work by Froment-Meurice that combines silver, gold and Bresse enamels. Furthermore, the paste gems set in the silver match those of the enamel work, indicating that they probably originated together. Please see 'photographs.

We have shown another similar example of the work of Francois-Desire Froment-Meurice in the pictures. It appears to have very similar angels and the center is filled with an enamelled shield. It is shown on page 40 of Henri Vever's book on 19th century French jewelry. The design and modelling of the wings is identical as is the use of silver with partial gilt highlights. Jules Wiese produced many of the Froment-Meurice designs. 

Marks:

No signature found. Attribution is based on seeing similar examples as per description above and photos.   

Condition:

good with minor wear commensurate with age. Clasp of pin is certainly a replacement.  Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.