A Serene Masterpiece: Vintage 1950s Enameled Virgin Mary Brooch

This exquisite 1950s enameled brooch, crafted in 18K yellow and white gold, features a serene depiction of the Virgin Mary. The delicate enamel work, of unusually high quality, captures her gentle expression, framed by a golden nimbus and veil, evoking a timeless reverence. Encircled by floral motifs adorned with ten cabochon turquoises, this piece seamlessly blends vintage charm with artistry. Reflecting the influence of religious Renaissance iconography, it embodies devotion and craftsmanship, making it a treasured connection to mid-century Christian artistry and its enduring legacy.

Antique jewelry object group
brooch

Condition
very good condition
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Country of origin
unknown

Style
Vintage 1950s
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Period
ca. 1950
Events & facts of this era, poetry of this era, fashion of this era.

Source of inspiration
Christianity

Theme
Virgin Mary - That Mary was the virgin mother of the divine Christ is made plain in the Bible and from the beginning Christians have believed she remained virgin throughout her life, as church fathers, and councils testify. In the Roman Catholic Church it is an article of faith that God preserved Mary from the taint of 'original sin' from the first moment of her conception in her mother's womb (her 'Immaculate Conception'). Also that, without denying her natural death, at the end of her earthly life she was taken body and soul into Heaven (her Assumption).

Material 18K
yellow and white gold or platinum (touchstone tested)
more info on precious metals

Technique
Enamelling is an old and widely-adopted technology. The ancient Egyptians applied enamels to pottery and stone objects. The ancient Greeks, Celts, Russians, and Chinese also used enameling processes on metal objects. Enamel is the colorful result of fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 degrees Celsius. The powder melts and flows and hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating on metal, glass or ceramic. According to some sources, the word enamel comes from the High German word smelzan (to smelt) via the Old French esmail. Used as a noun, "an enamel" is a usually small decorative object, coated with enamel coating, such as a champlevé or a cloisonné (different techniques).

Precious stones
Ten cabochon turquoises

Birthstones
Turquoise is the birthstone (or month stone) for December .
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Hallmarks
No trace.
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Dimensions
4,24 cm (1,67 inch) x 3,23 cm (1,27 inch)
see picture with a ruler in millimeters and inches

Weight
10,00 gram (6,43 dwt)

Adin Reference Nº
24323-0268

Copyright photography
Adin, fine antique jewellery

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