Antique Victorian Enameled MOP 18ct Yellow Gold Brooch Featuring Beatrice Portinari w/ Original Box
This lovely piece hails from Lille, France. When I bought this I did not know that it came with a note, let alone that it would be dated and with the figure’s name…Beatrice de Dante. This is an exceptional example of Beatrice Portinari, Dante's beloved Beatrice as she's more often known in North America. Also, there go my plans to keep the box and sell the brooch. Preserving/keeping history in tact will always be my first priority.
This hand enameled, mother of pearl, 18ct yellow gold, pearl, French brooch comes with its original box (it’s beyond clean and beautifully tooled and gilded). It is suspected to be Limoges, though it is unsigned. It does, sadly, have a replacement pin. I am aware that in a few of the photos it looks as though this piece has missing or damaged enamel, I assure you that is only unforunate glare and nothing more. Beatrice, and the box she comes in, are both nearly perfect.
So far the earliest documentation I’ve found has been from the 1902 Bulletin of Lille Geographical Society, where it has Vaneste (Auguste), listed as a bijoutier at 90 rue Nationale (last image of this post).
A little about the firm this treasure was originally purchased from…
In 1894 Auguste Vaneste opens at 90 rue Nationale in Lille the house VANESTE specializing in jewelry and goldsmiths. It quickly became the benchmark house for wedding baskets for the northern bourgeoisie.
1910 Without a successor, he sells his business to Madame Deveugle-Vaneste for his younger son Maurice who continues to develop his business until his death.
1936 When Maurice dies, his wife Suzanne takes over the interim, who contributes to the sustainability of the company despite the vagaries of history. The war even forced Suzanne to evacuate with her two children and the stock of precious stones hidden on her…
Better yet? Maison Vaneste is STILL OPEN and operational! Unfortunately, there are no surviving records related to this first location.
Size: UK N / US 6.75
Metal: 18ct Yellow Gold
Stone: Mother of Pearl
Weight: 5.83 grams
Markings: Eagle Head / H&N inside a lozenge shape
Condition: In excellent antique condition
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Disclaimer
All jewellery present in a listing for a box is for example and decoration purposes only - it is not included in the sale. Any box present in a listing for a piece of jewellery is for example and decoration purposes only - it is not included in the sale. Any item not directly stated as included is to be considered a prop and not included in the sale.
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