Antique Victorian Brooch Wiese 18k Gold French Head of Angel Signed WIESE (6371)

Antique Victorian Renaissance Revival or Gothic Revival brooch. 18k yellow gold. Made in France by Jules or Louis Wiese and signed by them. Circa 1880.

Measurements: Approximately 1 inch wide X 7/8 inches in height. In cm the width is a little over 2.5cm excluding the pin, which extends to 3cm. The height is approximately 2.2cm. Weighs 10.4 grams.

Description: During the 2nd half of the 19th century, the Victorians (Napoleon III in France) became fanatical about older civilisations. In particular, there was a Revival of Gothic and Renaissance styles. One of the most famous jewellers to work in these styles was Wiese (father and son - Jules and Louis). This brooch is Classic Revival, featuring a cherubic angel head with wings stretched up and curving around the face. A halo with radiant light behind the golden locks of hair and a fleur de lis brings the bottom to a pointed termination. Workmanship is outstanding. Hinge and pin are original and in great shape. The same brooch can be seen in the book on Jewellery in the Age of Queen Victoria by Charlotte Gere and Judy Rudoe. It was also seen for sale in London for many times our asking price and is part of the British Museum collection.

Marks: The back of the brooch has the WIESE signature as well as the Wiese lozenge and a tiny French eagle head for 18k gold. The C-clasp of the pin has both the eagle head and maker's mark lozenge.

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.