This unique five-panelled silver Victorian c1850 bracelet features magnificent floral bouquet micro mosaic designs that are slightly different on each panel. The dimensions of each panel are:28.5mm (L) x 22.5mm (W) or 1 1/8" (L) x 7/8" (W). The depth is 4.8mm at the thickest point. The total length of all panels i.
The whole bracelet is 18cm or 7. The setting is French silver. The maker mark has the initials "JP" under an umbrella and inside of a diamond. The clasp is original and works securely.
The total weight of the piece is 39.8 grams. The mosaics on each panel are extremely fine and beautifully rendered.
See for example the gradation of color on the petals of the flowers. This is the work of a true master. I would estimate that the panels were made in Italy (where this skill resided in the mid 1800s) and were then made into a bracelet in France. The mosaic tiles (or tessearae) are set into rectangular black glass slabs, with bevelled sides. They are bezel set in the silver bracelet. There are a few very small chips to the glass along the edges. I reiterate these are minor, and noticeable only on close inspection. They do not detract from the overall splendor or integrity of this piece. Note also that there are about 4 to 5 tessarae i.Individual tiny mosaic tiles missing from the whole bracelet and this too is noticeable only on very very close inspection. The silver setting is original and has all of the brads that cover the connecting links (a lot of times these can be missing or replaced).
There are no signs of solder or repair to the piece. On the panel second from the clasp, the silver is a little askew on two sides and the panel - while firm - does not sit quite as snugly as in the other four panels.One can also see a tiny 1mm indentation in the silver itself. There are no other irregularities to the setting and the piece still has its vermeil finish with some wear and thinning but it is still golden and pretty. There is still a little bit of tarnish on the setting that could be polished out. Overall this is a finely made, silver micro mosaic bracelet, that is in very good condition. Please see photos for more details.
The item "Rare Antique Victorian 1850 Micro Mosaic Floral French Silver Bracelet, 39.8g" is in sale since Wednesday, July 12, 2017. This item is in the category "Jewelry & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewelry\Fine\Victorian, Edwardian 1837-1910\Bracelets". The seller is "huntlym" and is located in Santa Monica, California.
This item can be shipped worldwide.