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.
This breathtaking micro mosaic piece has a beautifully executed design of a floral bouquet in a footed urn. Each miniscule tile has been perfectly placed to give depth and vibrancy to each flower! A stunning, museum quality work, it has no chips or cracks. The setting is gold filled base metal, and the pin on the reverse is missing. But the true value is in the mosaic, and it is pristine!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1 5/8"
Weight: 13.6 grams
Materials: Tessarae (glass tiles)
Metal: Gold filled base metal
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear. Pin is missing.