Antique Micro Mosaic Dove Bird Pendant & Brooch, Italy, Victorian Italian

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Antique Micro Mosaic Dove Bird Pendant & Brooch, Italy, Victorian Italian:
$350.00

Antique Micro Mosaic Dove Bird Pendant & Brooch, Italy, Victorian Italian
For your consideration is this beautiful micro mosaic brooch depicting a white bird and several flowers. The brooch measures 1 6/16\" tall (1 11/16\" with bale) x 1 1/16 wide. I would date this convertible pendant/brooch to the late 1800s- early 1900s. The bale is nicely sized for a chain of your choice and is original to the piece. The brooch clasp appears to be a later addition replacement. I do not test metals, but I believe this to be either rolled gold or gold plated. I cannot detect any tesserae loss. Please examine all photos closely for details and condition. *Penny for scale only.
A brief history of micro mosaic jewelry:Wearing micro mosaic jewelry became popular during the Grand Tour period (17th - 19th Century). Members of rich European families would travel around Europe, taking in the sights and cultures of different countries. Italy was a very popular tourist spot as it had a long and prestigious history in arts and culture - a favorite subject in aristocratic circles. It was also a famous glass producer, and Italian craftsmen quickly turned their glass making skills to making stunning miniature micro mosaic pictures for their rich visitors. Flowers were a very popular subject.