Antique Victorian Caduceus Brooch 18k Gold Winged Snakes Medicine Doctors (7352)

Antique Victorian Caduceus brooch. 18k gold. Made 19th century.
Unisex - suitable for a man or a woman. Appropriate especially for a doctor.

Measurements: Weight is 5.9 grams. Length is 1 7/8 inches (4.8cm).

Description : The caduceus was the symbol of the Greek god, Hermes and became the symbol for medicine and doctors in later years. This is a particularly lovely caduceus, entirely worked in 18k yellow gold. The symbol with a golden staff in its center, upon which a pair of serpents wind. Bodies of the snakes are graduated in size and form loops as the snakes twine around one another. Smallest loop at the bottom. Unusually fine engraved detail to bodies of snakes, giving scaley, naturalistic effect. The heads of the snakes curve in opposite directions, forming a large U shape, the final loop in the body of snakes. Fabulous deatil to the heads of the snakes, from scales to eyes and forked tongues.
Above the snakes is a pair of wings, as though partially held aloft by the snake heads. Again, the detail is fabulous - very fine engraving giving a soft and feathery effect, with catches the light at different points and causes a great play of brightness and shade.
C-clasp. Pin was probably replaced at some time.

Marks and Metal: No marks. Gold was electronically tested as 18k or above (except for replaced pin).

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