Antique Victorian Black Enamel Bow Brooch

A sweeping ribbon bow in glossy black enamel, edged in gold and finished with fine gilded stripes, gathers at the center under a stamped gold flower with a pink stone heart. Black enamel bows were a defining motif of the Victorian era, worn for mourning and sentiment and as quiet everyday adornment. The long pin stem and simple C-clasp on the back are characteristic of nineteenth-century construction. The contrast of black and gold makes it both solemn and sweet, and it sits beautifully on a coat collar, a velvet ribbon or a hat.

Materials:
Gilt brass, enamel, paste stone

Details:

• Era: Victorian
• Style/design notes: Sculpted ribbon bow with painted gilt stripes and a stamped flower center
• Stone or material notes: Round pink paste stone at the flower’s center
• Function: Long pin stem with a C-clasp
• Color: Black, gold, pink
• Condition: Good antique condition. The enamel is chipped on the right ribbon tail and at the left edge, the gilt is worn along the outer edges, and there’s light spotting on the back.

Collected by Mineral and Matter