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.
Another enduring trend from the Victorian Era was the incorporation of the Language of Flowers, wherein every blossom and leaf imaginable held secret meaning. It was so commonly practiced that floral messages were incorporated into jewelry, with our brooch serving as such an example.
Bright posies stand out from a black background, all executed with tiny tiles to compose the mosaic design. Included are: pink rose for sincere love, jasmine for faithfulness, red carnation for fascination, freesia for innocence and purity, yellow rose for friendship and love, chestnut leaves meaning do me justice, Guelder rose leaf for wild at heart, and beech leaf for prosperity. A charming, colorful and romantic little piece of art with a message worth deciphering!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1.5" x 1.75"
Weight: 19.4 grams
Materials: Gold, Tesserae
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Very good Antique condition commensurate with age and wear; some cracks on tiles.