Victorian 18K HAND-PAINTED MINIATURE TAJ MAHAL Grand Tour Hair/Mourning Brooch

OVERVIEW: Here's a c1860 brooch in 18K yellow gold. It is set with an exquisite hand-painted miniature of the Taj Mahal, executed en grisaille. The setting has a matte finish and fine applied wirework decoration. The back features a glass-covered compartment containing a lock of hair tied with white ribbon & thread. I have seen a similar Taj Mahal piece with a memorial inscription around the hair, so ours could be a mourning or sentimental piece. The back has a loop that could be used for a chained safety pin or to wear this piece as a pendant. A stunning Grand Tour brooch! MARKS: none, acid-tested for 18K.

DIMENSIONS: 2 1/8" x 1 3/4". CONDITION: overall good antique condition with a few minor quibbles-a few small pieces of wirework are missing; glass on the front has a few surface marks; the painting may have slipped down a few mm (see top left area); a few small instances of surface discoloration on the image; the clasp & hinge could be near-period replacements. A lot of words for minor issues but I don't want any surprises for you! Stunning piece in admirable shape. Please refer to the description for the most accurate information.

Items are preowned and may show acceptable signs of age and gentle use, including light tarnish, minor surface wear, etc. Notable faults will be described and photographed. We are always happy to answer questions and take more photos. Lowball offers will not be considered.

We do not end auctions early.