Description
Antique Georgian 18ct gold seed pearl miniature portrait brooch, c1800. Hand painted miniature portrait having a bezel set glass panel,(most probably rock crystal) surrounded by channel set strung seed pearls set in an 18ct gold mount. The mount having fine hand chased swag decoration to the outer edge. Tube hinged pin with C catch to verso & mother of pearl bezel set back panel. The portrait is possibly of Paul I of Russia, son of Peter III & Catherine the Great. Paul I was born 1st October 1754 & was assassinated 24th March 1801. Miniatures were usually given as tokens of love between family members & their importance was shown by the settings, gold, gem stones or pearls. The pin & C catch are both stamped with the French hallmark, the owl with 75 on it's chest. The owl mark stands for an item of jewellery that was imported into France. Any foreign gold object or one that does not have a legible French hallmark brought to customs by second hand jewellery dealers or auctioneers that does not comply to French customs fineness standards (1893-1990), 75 means that it was stamped in Paris. So this means this piece was brought into France a lot later than when it was made. With gift box. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the overall description. 
 
Date
c1800
 
Weight
12.64 grams
 
Dimensions
38mm x 30mm
 
 
Condition.
Excellent condition.