European (19th Century)
Grand Tour Brooch, c. 1840-1860
hand-painted porcelain, yellow gold
1 1/2″ high x 1 3/4″ wide
Notes: Grand Tour brooch / pendant with finely hand-painted landscape on porcelain plaque inset in yellow gold surround, c. 1860. Centrally featured is a romantic continental landscape that focuses an expansive vista on a small island situated within an enclosed body of water surrounded by mountains. Largely unpopulated the coastline and inland space is overrun with lush green overgrowth, the remote ruins/structures on the mountain peaks and on the secluded island are the only signs of habitation. These curiously positioned structures are classical/medieval/contemporary conveying an idealized picture of the continuity of nature and civilization. Intended as a keepsake it presented the wearer to society as affluent and cultured – a showpiece of sophistication and engagement.
