This is a marvelous, circa 1840s early Victorian brooch, modeled as a Saint Esprit dove, pavé-set with natural turquoise cabochons and garnet eyes. A turquoise-set heart pendant dangles from the beak of the dove, with a glass-backed locket containing what appears to be a lot of hair inside. The reverse of the dove is beautifully dimensional and finished, with engraved feather details. Such a sentimental piece — with the dove representing peace (or the Holy Spirit in Christian iconography) and the heart representing love.

A similar example is in the collection of the British Museum. Search Museum Number 1978,1002.380 on its website, and while you’re there, search for the turquoise-set Coburg eagle brooch that Queen Victoria presented to her train bearers for the occasion of her wedding to her beloved Prince Albert in 1840 — sparking a “trend” for turquoise-set bird brooches such as this Saint Esprit example.

Unmarked.

14k gold, silver, turquoise, garnet.

Dimensions and weight:

●       40 mm long

●       42 mm wide

●       7 mm deep

●       12.4 grams

 Period: Victorian

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present.

*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.