Watchcock Brooch with Grotesque Face and Sunflowers - 19 th Century Gilt Steel

This is a Victorian brooch and is an excellent example of 19th Century recycled jewellery!  This gilded pin is made from the workings of a much earlier Georgian pocket watch.  When watches (which would have had real gold or silver cases) were scrapped, enterprising Victorian jewellers recognised the intricate work and knew these watch cocks we’re too special  to throw away.  Thus the lovely gilded metal watchcocks from the workings got a new life as wearable jewellery which was a much-admired novelty. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets and pins were made up from these unique and intricate scrap parts.  The resulting treasures were known as 'inspiration jewellery' and this 3.5cms/1.5inch long brooch is a great example. Offered in very good order it has the most pleasing images on it including a little grotesque face ( to ward off evil spirits) and two open Sunflowers amongst leaves and scrolls. Engraved and pierced details make up the surface design. 

JEWELLERY DETAILS

Designer or Brand: No, this is a 'one off'

Country of Origin: UK

Condition: Very Good

Decade:  1890s

Era: Antique

Type: Brooch

Material: Gilded Steel