Artisan Antiques has dated this Victorian Holbeinesque Garnet Pendant to the Victorian era.
Two rich red garnet cabochons have been set within a wonderful geometric frame, bordered with foliate blue enamel and pearls.
Holbeinesque jewellery refers to the neo-renaissance Victorian revival design in the manner of Hans Holbein the Younger (c. 1497-1543), one of the most accomplished portraitists of the 16th-century Renaissance period. Holbein spent two periods of his life in England, most notably portraying the nobility of the Tudor court and the renowned portrait of Henry VIII.
What is perhaps overlooked and overshadowed is Holbein's pursuit and designs for jewellery, plate and other objects of vertu. He often portrayed subjects wearing extravagant jewels popular in the Tudor period, but additionally drew/painted jewellery exclusively, some featuring his own design. Holbeinesque jewellery often included the use of cabochon gems set centrally, embellished with colourful enamelwork using intricate techniques such as champlevé as can be seen on this piece.
Its design and the opulent garnet cabochon/enamel are quintessentially Victorian neo-renaissance and distinguishes itself from contemporary jewellery. The garnet presents an alluring and almost mystical look as its tone drastically changes depending on the lighting and angle, from a dark red to a striking rich hue.
Such designs also offer the perfect opportunity to display high-level goldsmithing, with intricate and fine gold mounts which caress the gems with a seamless finish. The champlevé enamelling has a beautiful foliate and contrasting blue pattern - further displaying the intricacy and aesthetic craftsmanship of the period.
The reverse side presents a most wonderful buttery antique champagne gold tone with a locket and beautiful hand-engraved presentation which reads "To A.D. from W.S.D - H.E.D, 14th Nov 1857".
Splendid in a collection, but better yet, perfect for those who wish to wear a statement piece, rich with artistic history. Whether it be for a special occasion or an evening party, the pendant would grace a stylish blouse in the warmer months or on a one-piece dress for more formal occasions, wonderfully accenting your outfit with a single point of opulent impression.
A very special gift for someone or as an indulgent addition for the discerning antique jewellery lover. This pendant is exemplary of the creative and meticulous Victorian jewellery making and is a wonderful way to display your passion for distinguished antiques, history and style.
Garnet is known to be the birthstone for January and pearls for June.
The brooch is unmarked, as is common with articles of this period and as such, we have tested it, indicating 18ct gold.
All of our jewellery comes with a complimentary hard shell gift box with a velvet interior.
Size & Total Weight
4.5cm x 2.1cm
7.59g/0.24 troy oz
Condition: good antique condition with no major issues or damage, only some slight surface wear as expected with antiques of this age and some minor enamel restoration (border).
We aim to overemphasise and state these issues (if any) to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.
Please kindly refer to the photos for further details.
Please note: all other items are for display purposes only and this listing is for the item listed in the title only.
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Artisan Antiques has dated this Victorian Holbeinesque Garnet Pendant to the Victorian era.
Artisan antiques based in london, brings to you a global selection of fine antique silverware.
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Antique Victorian Holbeinesque Pendant Necklace Garnets Pearls 18k Gold - C.1857
