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Victorian "Essex Crystal" Stickpin

Victorian reverse intaglio terrier stickpin. (SP9607)

Fox Terrier


An elegant Victorian stickpin with a reverse intaglio ("Essex crystal") of an alert fox terrier.  The finely sculpted intaglio beautifully captures the terrier's expression of focused determination.  The portrait is richly rendered with fine details of the terrier's collar, markings and fur.  A miniature masterpiece crafted in 14kt gold, circa 1880.

This finely detailed reverse intaglio began with a gem carver meticulously carving the scene into the reverse of a polished dome of rock crystal (hence the term "reverse intaglio").  Then using fine brushes (sometimes no more than a single horsehair) the artist carefully colored and highlighted the terrier and his collar.  Finally, the back of the crystal was sealed with a small disk of mother of pearl throwing the image into bright, luminous relief.  Truly a Victorian masterpiece in miniature!

Cost:  $775

Measurements:  This 14kt gold stickpin is  2 3/4" long and weighs 4.6 grams.  The reverse intaglio top measures 11/16" by 1/2".


Victorian reverse intaglio terrier stickpin. (SP9607)


Victorian reverse intaglio terrier stickpin. (SP9607)
Victorian reverse intaglio terrier stickpin. (SP9607)


The reverse of the stickpin is as nicely crafted as the front.  The back is enclosed with gold to help protect the intaglio crystal and the mother-of-pearl backing.

Here are a few more elegant jewels from the past ...

Hans Brassler medieval amethyst stickpin. (SP9421) Equestrian stickpin of horse head in profile. (J9056) French Art Nouveau dragon stickpin. (J9485)



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