Brooch Medallion in rose gold and eglomised glass

Brooch medallion in rose gold 18 carats, made with a frame that opens in two parts. The frame closes with a gold padlock. It is linked to the bélière by four chains, and the bélière inserts into a gold pin for wearing as a brooch. The pin can be removed to wear the medallion as a pendant. At the top of the frame is an additional chain with a gold key at the end, long enough to reach the padlock. The padlock is locked by a notch at the end of the buckle, which can be opened and closed by applying pressure.

Both sides of the medallion feature a beveled glass plate. The bizeaus on the front plate are more elaborate.

Inside, a mother-of-pearl plate highlights the eglomised glass work.

The front features an eglomized glass miniature of a putto kneeling before an altar.

The back is blank and can be used for a miniature portrait or, nowadays, a photo.

Verre églomisé" is a French term referring to the technique of finely etching a glass plate and then covering it with gold leaf. The reverse side of the plate was then painted black, revealing a design. The name derives from the 18th-century French decorator and art dealer Jean-Baptiste Glomy (1711-1786), who was responsible for its revival.

The eglomized glass technique has existed since antiquity, but was used extensively during the Directoire and Empire periods.

The presence of a key or padlock suggests the sentimental value of this miniature jewel.

Early 19th century French work. Two hallmarks in two different places, but not legible.

Very fine jewel, good condition, with a few small chips in the eglomisé decoration and a few micro-scratches on the back glass.

Dimensions

Total weight: 18.6 grams

Length with pin: 9.1 centimeters

Length without pin from hanger: 8.2 centimetres

Frame length with hooks (top and bottom): 4.8 centimetres

Frame length without catches: 4.18 centimeters

Frame width: 3.19 centimeters

Frame thickness: 5.56 centimeters

Pin width: 2.83 centimeters