GOLD AND MICRO MOSAIC BANGLE, 1860s

Decorated to the obverse with a panel set with multi-coloured tesserae depicting a scene of the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, founders of Rome with their wolf mother on the banks of the Tiber River, between two reclining personifications of the River Tiber, to gold rope work borders, decorated to the reverse with a repeating rope and granulated gold work of octagonal design, measuring approximately 160mm.

Cf: Understanding Jewellery, Daniela Mascetti and David Bennett, Antique Collector's Club, 1989, plate 290, page 186, for a similar  micro mosaic bangle.

Very fine multi-coloured tesserae in excellent condition, no visible losses. Gold polished areas slightly tarnished, could benefit from a careful clean by a professional jeweller. No noticeable damage gold details, rope work or beading, some small indentations near to decoration on left hand side and to centre. Lifting bar clasp a little stiff. Scratches and indentations to inside of bangle, one edge where gold is pierced in a split approximately 3.0mm long, consistent with age and wear. Together with a modern wooden travelling case, foam lined to protect the bangle. In excellent condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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