Americana & Folk Art
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Peggy McClard Antiques Americana & Folk Art |
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This is a spectacular silhouette on ivory brooch of unusual design.
When one can find these precious jewelry silhouettes, they are in plain
gold settings or, if really lucky, gold settings surrounded by seed
pearls or paste gemstones. I've never before had one in such an
elaborate metalwork setting. The beautiful fruit and foliate
brooch in undoubtedly the work of Henry William Field who worked with
his famous father, John Field, and showed a prodigy-like affinity for
metalwork as well as painting. By the time Henry was 12 years old,
he was crafting metal jewelry settings for his father's profile
business. While I have no doubt that the jewelry setting (with
beautifully shaped leaves and pears or, perhaps figs) is the work of
Henry, I am not sure whether the silhouette was painted by Henry or his
father, John.
Henry is known for using a more pronounced dip at the back of his bust termination than his father. The bust termination of this profile indicates that it is the work of Henry. However, John Field's gilt embellishment is generally considered to be much more advanced work with finer brush strokes. The exquisite bronzing of this silhouette indicates that it is the work of John Field. This circa 1830 silhouette will capture all kinds of attention when you wear it. The brooch measures 2" wide x 1 1/2". The silhouette, itself, measures 1" x 1 1/4". (#4230) $2250 |
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