Mastery of Design: The Micromosaic Dove Brooch, 1860

Micromosaic Brooch
Italy, c. 1860
From the Gilbert Collection at
The Victoria & Albert Museum

This circular brooch is crafted in the classical style and dates to around 1860. Made in Italy, this fashionable bit of micromosaic depicts two doves and foliage set against a gleaming gold background. 

Tourists visiting Italy would often bring back micromosaic pieces during the “Grand Tours” which were so important to those in upper-class society. These panels would range in size and shape. Some were made into jewelry while large panels were set into furniture.

I think the many, many doves who have made nests on the columns and porches of my home would appreciate this quite a lot.