This is such a rare find! A Victorian double-sided handpainted portrait miniature in a natural rose-cut diamond set mount with its original fitted box from Frazer & Haws. Dating back to circa 1850, this unique piece showcases a reversible/swivel central section, allowing you to choose between two portraits, either of which can be surrounded by diamonds or displayed without.
The exquisite and detailed craftsmanship is clear to see - from the portraits delicately handpainted in watercolour on ivory to the diamond settings, each one individually pierced to allow light to flow through each rose-cut diamond, maximising their brilliance and enhancing their sparkle.
To alternate between the two portraits, push the glass in the centre so the portraits swivel around to face the other way. We believe it is easier to manoeuvre when pushing to the left of the younger child and to the right of the older girl when each one is facing the same side as the diamonds.
The diamonds are all original to the piece; they are bright, well-matched and sparkle magnificently. There are some tiny chips to a few of the diamonds, as to be expected in a piece of this age. This does not detract from their sparkle or the beauty of this historical piece.
The pendant is in excellent antique condition, with only some minor scuffs to the glass that are not easily noticeable to the naked eye.
The tradition of portrait miniatures originated in the 16th century, gaining popularity as tokens of loyalty, love and friendship or to remember lost or absent loved ones. This particular piece, hand painted on ivory, exemplifies the 18th-century trend of wearing such miniatures as jewelry in precious metal settings adorned with precious gemstones, enamel, and/or pearls. The gold purity in this pendant tests as approximately 12-carat gold, with the diamonds set in silver.
IVORY EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE: C5ES917
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Shown in the photos worn on the Victorian 15ct Gold Curb Chain With Fancy Bolt Ring And Dog Clip and styled with the Pair Of Antique Diamond Swallows With Ruby Eyes which are worn on the Antique 15ct Gold Snake Chain With Hexagonal Barrel Clasp.
Rare Victorian Double Portrait Miniature Pendant In Rose-Cut Diamond Mount
- Antique: Victorian, circa 1850
- Rare double-sided swivel portrait miniature pendant
- 12-carat gold and silver
- Rose-cut diamond mount
- Length: 42.5mm including the bail
- Diameter: 32mm including the diamond mount
- Thickness: 5mm
- Weight: 12.59 grams
- Excellent antique condition
- Comes in its original fitted Frazer & Haws box
- Handpainted watercolour on ivory
- IVORY EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE: C5ES917
Diamond measurements and carat weight are estimated - all measurements taken in their setting.
Unless otherwise stated, any chains, jewellery boxes, and other items photographed with the listed piece are for advertising purposes only and not sold with this piece.