The Grand Tour was a rite of passage starting in the late 17th Century. It continued for about 300 years, tapering off into obscurity around the turn of the 20th Century. A typical "Grand Tourist" would be an educated and wealthy Englishman, German, Scandinavian, or American. The trip was a method of architectural, cultural and social study. The itinerary could vary, but usually a Tour started in France and ended in Italy. It was common to collect various art, jewelry, and souvenirs to commemorate the trip. These items were usually sent home for loved ones, kept as mementos, or formed the basis of new life-long collections for the men who took the trip.
The term "micro mosaic" was coined by wealthy 20th-century collector Sir Arthur Gilbert in reference to Roman mosaics composed of little glass bricks called tessarae. These were sold as fine jewelry to Victorian ladies in the early and mid-19th century, when the tourism trade was at a peak in Rome.
Having a fine micro mosaic Grand Tour piece is very fashionable even in today's antique jewelry world and it is a lasting testament to the fine work created by Italian artisans of the Victorian era, celebrating the glory that was once the Roman empire.
This very special micro mosaic has been assembled with lampwork glass tiles, a technique that gives the piece a three dimensional effect. A cluster of grapes rests on a white background with a colorful floral border. A black oval of glass holds the mosaic which is set in 14 karat yellow gold on a swivel frame, revealing a glass fronted locket. Perfect for a photo, a pressed flower, or your favorite little object, it will continue to delight and amaze your audience every time you wear it!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 54mm x 44mm
Weight: 29 grams
Materials: Gold, Tessarae, Glass
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Very good antique condition commensurate with age and wear. Some small cracks which do not interfere with the integrity of the piece.
