Archaeological-Revival Gold 'Millefiori' Brooch, Castellani

Of bombé form, decorated with a standing putto and four doves within an elaborate cluster of flower heads, the border decorated with twisted wire and beading, signed with interlaced C's; circa 1860.

The Judith H. Siegel Collection, Sotheby's New York, December 6, 2006, lot 29.

Castellani and Italian Archaeological Jewelry, The Bard Graduate Center,New York, November 2004-February 2005, page 235, fig. 9-11.

Somerset House, London, May 2005-September 2005.

Villa Giulia, Rome, November 2005-February 2006.

Susan Weber Soros and Stephanie Walker, Castellani and Italian Archaeological Jewelry, pages 235 and 346.

In very good condition. The richly colored yellow gold presenting a matte finish with very subtle tool marks to the reverse, emphasizing the piece's handmade nature. This is of particular note when placed against a backdrop of increased mechanization and mass production in the jewelry industry. Very light nicking and scratching throughout, minute perforations to the rim, and a small area of discoloration to the reverse. The flora and fauna are raised on slender "stems" allowing for negative space between the elements which creates a sense of depth. Small discoloration to the pin's hinge, but this does not appear to be due to a repair.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The name Castellani has been associated with archeological-revival jewelry since the firm was founded in 1816. Fortunato Pio, alongside sons Augusto and Alessandro, produced miniature works of art in the form of jewels with an antique aesthetic through the use of filigree, granulation, cameos, etc. Being based in Rome also proved advantageous to Castellani, as proximity to artifacts found during excavations provided an endless source of inspiration. Michelangelo Caetani, the Duke of Sermoneta, was a prominent archaeologist of the time and was known to have been a close friend of Castellani. Whereas other jewels of the time period focused on showcasing gemstones, jewels by Castellani hold their value in their exquisite design; not one surface goes unattended and not one design is crafted without a wealth of historical influences.