Enamel and diamond brooch, late 18th century and later

Designed as a butterfly, the polychrome enamel wings each within a later cannetille work frame, accented with cushion-shaped diamonds and rubies, later brooch fitting.

By family tradition this brooch is part of the jewel mentioned in the memoirs of pianist Alexandre Rey Colaços, 'Os Colaço, Uma Família Portuguesa Em Tânger', 'Ainda existe nas mãos da minha sobrinha Concesa Matheros, um curioso relógio, em forma de borboleta, cujas azas policromas são esmaltadas e cravejadas de brilhantes, joia esta que pertenceu á rainha Maris Luisa d'Espanha e veiu parar, não sei por que circunstancias, às mãos da minha avó, por intermédio de Madame Beramendi', 'still exists in possession of my neice Concesa Mantheros a curious watch (or clock), in the form of a butterfly with polychromed enamel wings and studded with diamonds, the same jewel that belonged to the Queen Maria Luisa of Spain, that came to my grandmother, through Madam Beramendi, in those days minister of Spain in Tangiers'. The watch no longer exists and the cannetille work has been later added.

Cf: Jorge Forjaz, 'Os Colaço, Uma Família Portuguesa Em Tânger', Lisbon 2004, pages 187-188.

Estimated total diamond weight approximately 2.00-2.50 carats, estimated colour H-J, estimated clarity VS-SI . Rubies purplish red, typical inclusions visible to the naked eye, abrasion to facet edges. Some evidence of restoration and losses to enamel. Secure pin fitting. Evidence of solder visible to front and reverse on one wing. Scratches and tarnish to metal consistent with wear. In good condition.
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