Victorian Italian Micromosaic Beetle Earrings C. 1870
These wonderful Victorian earrings, dating from circa 1870, feature micro-mosaics depicting beautiful iridescent beetles. Micro-mosaics are composed of small glass bricks called tesserae and are a take on Roman mosaic work. They were popular souvenirs for 19th Century Victorian travelers, especially when returning from a "Grand Tour." Interest in archeological excavations and classical designs were very high in this period, influencing the popular styles such Etruscan Revival and Neo Classical. These beetles are a rare and highly sought after motif.
A wonderful example of this unique style, they tend to vary in quality and this is a very high quality piece with beautiful naturalist design and gorgeous color. Converted in modern time from buttons into stud earrings.
Box is for display only - listing is only for earrings.
Dimensions: Earrings measure 16.8 mm in diameter.
Weight: 3.2 grams (one earring)
Condition: In good antique condition. Some mosaic pieces absent and some flaking to coloring on beetle wings. Additional photos and videos are available upon request. Earrings are a button conversion with unknown metal.
