Opulent Stitches: A French Gold Sewing Set from the Victorian Era

This exquisite 19th Century French Sewing Nécessaire, hailing from the Grand Victorian Period, is a paragon of opulence and craftsmanship. Encased in an original, custom-made ivory box, it epitomises the luxurious aesthetic of the era. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, the set reflects the Victorian era's penchant for extravagant designs, inspired by global influences. It resonates with the period's historical significance, including the mourning jewelry trend post-1850. The intricate monogram J.S (or U.S?) on the box's cover adds a personal touch, while the French eagle's head hallmark assures its authenticity. This piece is not just a functional artefact but a window into the lavish Victorian lifestyle.

Antique jewelry object group
Opulent Stitches: A French Gold Sewing Set from the Victorian Era

Condition
very good condition
more info on our condition scale

Country of origin
France

Style
Victorian - Victorian decorative arts refers to the style of decorative arts during the Victorian era. The Victorian era is known for its eclectic revival and interpretation of historic styles and the introduction of cross-cultural influences from the middle east and Asia in furniture, fittings, and Interior decoration. Victorian design is widely viewed as having indulged in a regrettable excess of ornament. The Arts and Crafts movement, the aesthetic movement, Anglo-Japanese style, and Art Nouveau style have their beginnings in the late Victorian era.
See also: Victorian
more info on styles

Style specifics
The Grand Victorian Period - Experts divide the reign of Queen Victoria, also called The Victorian era (1837 - 1901) into three periods of about twenty years each; The Romantic Victorian Period (1837 - 1860), The Grand Victorian Period (1860 - 1880), and the Late or Aesthetic Victorian Period (1880 - 1901).

We consider this to be of the Grand Victorian Period.

This second Victorian period is famous for its ostentatious pieces set with pearls and diamonds (from South Africa). From ca. 1850 wealthy English had reported about jewelry from India and Japan, which heavily inspired the jewelers of this period. This period also corresponds with the death of Queen Victoria's husband King Albert making mourning jewelry (set with heavy dark stones) the type of jewelry specific for this period.

Period
ca. 1860
Events & facts of this era, poetry of this era, fashion of this era.

Material
18K yellow gold (touchstone tested)
more info on precious metals

Extra information
Our antique ivory box, a testament to craftsmanship from over a century and a half ago, is perfectly fashioned to accommodate the sewing set it houses, ensuring all parts stay firmly in place. In line with our commitment to ethical practices, we do not offer or send this item beyond the European Community, adhering to international regulations.

Engraving
On the cover of the box there is a monogram J.S (or U.S?)

Hallmarks
The French control mark for 18K gold representing an eagle's head that was in use in France from about 1838.
more info on hallmarks

Outer dimensions box
10,60 cm (4,17 inch) x 5,70 cm (2,24 inch) x 1,80 cm (0,71 inch)
see picture with a ruler in millimeters and inches

Weight
173,00 gram (111,24 dwt)

Adin Reference Nº
23360-0344

Copyright photography
Adin, fine antique jewellery

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