Mourning jewelry became popular during the 18th century, when sentiment, both sorrowful and romantic, began to be expressed in a more allegorical style. In some pieces, the hair of the deceased was crushed into a powder and mixed with stabilizers in order to create a pigment with which to make a miniature painting for jewelry. In some cases, watercolors were used alongside hair clippings to create the images under glass on these pieces.
Verre églomisé is a French term referring to the process of applying both a design and gilding onto the rear face of glass to produce a mirror finish. The name is derived from the 18th-century French decorator and art dealer Jean-Baptiste Glomy (1711-1796) who was responsible for its revival.
This wonderful mourning brooch/pendant has a sweet hand painted picture of a woman with a dove perched on her raised hand. A pastel landscape serves as the background, and the lady herself wears a sepia gown with a large blue bow. The decorative border is executed in the Verre églomisé technique, adding a fancy touch to this lovely relic. A must-have for anyone who collects and cherishes antique mourning jewelry!
Circa 1800-1810
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1.25"
Weight: 6.19 grams
Materials: Hand Painted Organic Wafer, Glass, Gold Fill
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear