Edwardian Violets Reverse Intaglio Crystal Brooch; Austrian c.1910
A round rock crystal brooch made in Austria depicting a bunch of violets.
Blue violets symbolise devotion in the Victorian language of flowers with violets meaning modesty.
The reverse carved rock crystal is set within a fine gold rim and then a white enamel outer border. The mother of pearl backing is visible to the reverse and the brooch has a sprung pin. The brooch has Austrian marks for 14carat gold with a makers stamp
This technique is made by the rock crystal being cut into a cabochon shape and a detailed design carved into it from the reverse. The image is painted inside the crystal so that when viewed from the front it appears in three dimensions. This technique is known as a “reverse intaglio.” The technique is sometimes referred to as an 'Essex crystal.'
Era: Edwardian, 1901 - 1920
Measurements: Brooch diameter 2.6cm it weighs 7.7grams
Hallmarks: Austrian Marks for 14ct Gold, Makers Mark WF
