2281708

Georgian / Victorian Spelter Metal Brooch #2281708

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Other Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
Georgian / Victorian Spelter Metal Brooch #2281708
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Rare Georgian spelter metal.</em></td>
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Estate brooch of the late Georgian / early Victorian era. Made of poured metal Spelter and hand painted. Figural birds, which I believe to be bluebirds or lovebirds, lovingly tending to their nest. There has been some paint loss over the years and this factor has been considered in the pricing. Measures 2-1/2" inches by 1-1/2" inches in height and has a replacement close on the back which is a more modern safety close. The detailing is quite magnificent, even to the dimpling of the nest.
Spelter is a derivative of impure zinc often used as an inexpensive alternative for bronze or other more expensive metals, in cast decorative items and occasionally jewellery. Sometimes referred to as Berlin iron made in that city from 1806 and popular during the Napoleonic Wars as a show of patriotism. Spelter is an unattractive darkish grey colour in it's natural state and therefore was gilted and or painted after being poured in to molds. It has a fairly substantial weight, being a poured metal, and this particular piece is approximately 50 grams in weight. This is a rare find indeed as spelter jewellery was really only made for a limited time. This particular piece is a magnificent example of that particular period of jewellery history.
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<td>Reference
#: 0002</td>
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<tr><td>Condition:As Described</td></tr>
<tr><td>Year:1800's</td></tr>






<tr><td>Title:Georgian / Victorian Spelter Metal Brooch</td></tr>

<tr><td>Materials:Spelter Metal</td></tr>

<tr><td>Location:Toronto, Canada</td></tr>
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