"Marie"

Antique French 18K & Jet Brooch

  • Sale
  • Regular price $3,500.00


Whether simple or elaborate, bow motifs have been a popular and desirable look all through the history of jewelry. For centuries famous makers and jewelry houses have featured bows in nearly all of their pieces, with stylistic elements that reflect the times and social settings of each era. During the 18th century in the French court of Louis XIV, bow brooches were used as “ribbon language” to communicate one’s availability for matrimony. Typically they were delicately shaped metal and diamond bow brooches called Sévignés, named after the Marquise de Sévigné whose famous French writings spoke of ladies with strategically placed bow brooches and necklaces. A bow worn over the heart indicated the woman was taken and had found true love, a bow dangling around the neck indicated that she was in between loves, and a bow over the décolletage was an invitation for new love suitors. 

This magnificent brooch is so finely and beautifully crafted, it could stand alone as a work of art. Comprised of 18 karat yellow gold scrolls and crimped bows surrounding a sleek disc of glossy jet, it has a monogram so elaborately executed that the only obvious initial is "M". Six hooks are provided on the reverse just in case one desires to hang an assortment of pendants or tassels for even further adornment!  An intriguingly romantic piece from the Napoleon III era (1851-1870), it will definitely cause a stir, no matter where you choose to place it!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 2 3/8"

Weight: 15.7 grams

Materials: Gold, Jet

Metal: 18K yellow gold

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent Antique condition

LORL, LOE