Antique Early Victorian Mourning Brooch, Tortoise Shell 18k Gold and Silver Pique Marquetry
Elegant early Victorian era (c.1840s) mourning brooch, French 38mm in diameter and 8mm thick plus the gold hinge and c-clasp pin back. Lots of inlay marquetry and pique work on this one, 18k gold and silver creating an exotic bird and florals with elaborate scalloping border encircling the perimeter. Fine old tortoise shell carved in a deep convex form, I see no flaws to note on this one, unless that silver pin attached to its gold mount could be replacement (see images for your evaluation). It is typically over-long as a pin, which might indicate it is the original. Very good to excellent condition throughout. I find nothing to report as a flaw. All pique and inlays are intact on this stunning old one. Nearly 200 years old now. From my own collections, being disbursed. IMPORTANT NOTE regarding antique tortoise shell or ivory: We are great supporters of protection for endangered species in our modern world. We never buy or sell anything 100 years or newer; we donate to anti-poaching o