Fine Antique Micromosaic Brooch Depicting the Roman Colosseum
In the Manner of Cesare Roccheggiani (Rome, Active Second Half 19th Century)
A fine antique nineteenth-century Roman micromosaic brooch depicting the iconic Colosseum of Rome, circa 1870, executed in exceptionally fine hand-cut varicoloured glass tesserae and mounted in unmarked high-carat yellow gold, likely 15ct, within a black surround. Preserved in a fitted presentation case.
Created during the height of the Grand Tour era, this impressive brooch captures one of Rome’s most celebrated architectural landmarks with remarkable precision and artistic sophistication.
The micromosaic is composed of minute individually cut tesserae laid entirely by hand, demonstrating the refined craftsmanship associated with the leading Roman micromosaic workshops of the nineteenth century. Particularly notable is the careful architectural perspective of the Colosseum, the subtle tonal gradation within the stonework, and the atmosp
...heric sky rendered through densely arranged pale tesserae.
The contrasting black surround intensifies both the luminosity of the mosaic and the warmth of the gold mount, creating a striking visual presentation. The overall quality of execution places this example well above the standard commercial tourist micromosaics of the period.
Micromosaics became highly fashionable among wealthy European and British travellers undertaking the Grand Tour of Italy during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Rome emerged as the principal centre for this intricate art form, with skilled artisans producing wearable souvenirs depicting ancient Roman ruins, Vatican landmarks, archaeological scenes, and classical subjects.
By circa 1870, Roman micromosaic workshops had achieved an extraordinary technical standard, producing refined jewellery intended for affluent collectors and aristocratic visitors. Large-scale architectural examples such as this were luxury commissions and considerably more expensive than smaller souvenir pieces.
Dimensions
Brooch:
Width: 5.9 cm
Height: 4.6 cm
Depth: 1.1 cm
Weight: 27.0 grams
Case:
Width: 8.2 cm
Height: 6.2 cm
Depth: 2.9 cm
Provenance
Private collection.
Previously offered through Elmwood’s Auctioneers, London, catalogued as:
“A Fine Antique Micromosaic Brooch, Circa 1870.”
Accompanied by a later fitted presentation case.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Condition Report
Very good antique condition overall. The micromosaic remains impressively intact with only minor age-related surface wear consistent with age and use. Fine age craquelure visible to the sky ground under magnification, typical of nineteenth-century examples. The gold mount is in good order with light surface wear commensurate with age. Pin and clasp functioning correctly. The fitted case is later and displays expected wear associated with handling and age.
A highly refined and display-worthy example of nineteenth-century Roman craftsmanship, combining fine antique jewellery with the enduring appeal of Grand Tour decorative arts.
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Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1215668
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
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