The Vestal Virgins

Description / Expertise

The Vestal Virgins
An important classical brooch/pendant in the
style of the antique
Gold, painted ivory, enamel, diamonds & pearl
Length: 5 cm Width: 5.6 cm
Marks: Eagle's head mark
Signature 'René Foy' (engraved) on reverse of brooch
French. Circa 1900
The brooch fitting can be unscrewed to allow for the hinged pendant loops (Please see 'Reverse' view)
Semi circular colonade of ionic columns. Strung between the capitals are enamelled floral garlands. The central motif is of the Vestal Virgins dancing around the sacred flame supported by a half column
The gold & enamel 'Baroque' frame is set with old cut diamonds & royal blue enamel, the pearl drop with enamel leaf to back
Literature: cf. Art Nouveau Jewelry
Vivienne Becker, 1985, p. 219, pl. 119
The Paris Salons 1895-1914, Jewellery, Alastair Duncan, 1994
Volume 1, The Designers A-K, P. 264-270
The Belle Epoque of French Jewellery 1850-1910
Thomas Heneage & Co Ltd, 1990, p. 231-233