A Lapis And Gold Archaeological Revival Suite

A Lapis And Gold Archaeological Revival Suite

Description

A lapis and gold archaeological revival suite, the brooch with an oval shaped carved lapis in the form of a scarab with gold twisted wire frame, surmounted with a realistically carved owl on the top and two rams heads one on each side, each ram suspending an amphora drop, to the centre a large drop depicting a beetle with a small pendant depicting a royal bee on each side, accompanied by matching earrings of similar design, all mounted in yellow gold, bearing 18ct gold hallmarks for Papal State, Rome circa 1817-1860, the brooch measuring 5.7 x 7.6cm, the earrings measuring 4 x 2.3cm, gross weight 44.3 grams, accompanied by 19th century fitted case marked Ghetti Brothers, Roma, Via Condotti 74.

This splendid lapis and gold archaeological revival suite comes from the collection of Bentley & Skinner, the London distinguished jewellers by royal appointment to His Majesty the King. The centrepiece of this brooch is an oval-shaped carved lapis lazuli, intricately fashioned into a scarab, symbol of rebirth, enclosed within a twisted gold wire frame. Atop this scarab sits a meticulously carved owl, flanked by two ram’s heads, each adorned with an amphora drop. Suspended at the centre is a large drop depicting a beetle, with small pendants depicting royal bees on either side. The ensemble is complemented by matching brooch earrings, all crafted in radiant yellow gold. Created in Rome circa 1817-1860, this exquisite set comes with a 19th-century fitted case marked Ghetti Brothers, Roma, Via Condotti 74, adding to its historical allure and provenance.