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- Antique Victorian Etruscan Revival ROMA and Scarab Brooch, Dated 1868, with Locket Compartment
Antique Victorian Etruscan Revival ROMA and Scarab Brooch, Dated 1868, with Locket Compartment
Antique Victorian Etruscan Revival ROMA and Scarab Brooch, Dated 1868, with Locket Compartment
Renewal, Revival.
This visually striking brooch immediately captivated us — it is so marvelously of a period of historical revivalism in the 19th century. Jewelers freely explored past civilizations for inspiration — including the ancient Etruscans and Egyptians. Etruscan carved gems often took the form of a scarab, an important symbol to the Egyptians. How perfect that we find a scarab set in our Etruscan Revival “ROMA” brooch!
We absolutely adore the layers of sentimentality here. The ROMA is a souvenir of the Eternal City; the scarab is an ancient symbol of renewal and rebirth; and on the reverse, we find a tender inscription for “Father” and “Mother", dated 1868, along with a now-empty glass-fronted locket compartment for a personal keepsake.
A strong design with clear elements and lines — surprisingly modern impression. Wonderful antique patina, substantial in scale.
Marked with maker’s mark for Vatican workshop.
At least 14k gold.
Dimensions and weight:
● 64 mm long (total drop)
● 65 mm wide
● 17 mm deep (including pin)
● 29.6 grams
Period: Victorian
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. Of note: we observe one decorative ball element deficient at the scroll above the “RO” ; we do not think this is readily apparent or detracting from this incredible piece. In addition, we discovered a piece of paper with undeciphered writing underneath the cover of the locket compartment, which we have left in place.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
Renewal, Revival.
This visually striking brooch immediately captivated us — it is so marvelously of a period of historical revivalism in the 19th century. Jewelers freely explored past civilizations for inspiration — including the ancient Etruscans and Egyptians. Etruscan carved gems often took the form of a scarab, an important symbol to the Egyptians. How perfect that we find a scarab set in our Etruscan Revival “ROMA” brooch!
We absolutely adore the layers of sentimentality here. The ROMA is a souvenir of the Eternal City; the scarab is an ancient symbol of renewal and rebirth; and on the reverse, we find a tender inscription for “Father” and “Mother", dated 1868, along with a now-empty glass-fronted locket compartment for a personal keepsake.
A strong design with clear elements and lines — surprisingly modern impression. Wonderful antique patina, substantial in scale.
Marked with maker’s mark for Vatican workshop.
At least 14k gold.
Dimensions and weight:
● 64 mm long (total drop)
● 65 mm wide
● 17 mm deep (including pin)
● 29.6 grams
Period: Victorian
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. Of note: we observe one decorative ball element deficient at the scroll above the “RO” ; we do not think this is readily apparent or detracting from this incredible piece. In addition, we discovered a piece of paper with undeciphered writing underneath the cover of the locket compartment, which we have left in place.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
