Gold and Faience brooch, late 19th Century

Designed as a scarab with open wings, set with Egyptian blue faience, Ptolemaic Period (305-30 B.C.), within a gold frame of twisted rope work, one rivet missing, fitted case.

Sotheby's, Magnificent Jewelry, New York, 12th and 13th April 1989, lot 1.

Accompanied by a fitted case. Coloured ceramic imitating turquoise with small areas of discolouration on both sides. Gilded metal with some discolouration to the back. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This brooch was presented for sale at auction with Sotheby's New York on 12^th April 1989 and prior to that came to the previous owner through their mother who had received it from her mother, the Grand Duchess Constantine, née Princess Elizabeth of Saxen-Altenburg. The brooch was a gift by her husband, Grand Duke Constantine, following a trip to Egypt in 1891. He was the grandson of Nicholas I.

The scarab beetle represents the sun-god and symbolised resurrection and immortality was one of the most popular motifs in Egyptian art. The Egyptians wore scarabs as an amulet to protect them from evil during their lifetime and also after death. Scarabs were either carved from stone or molded from faience, usually tinted blue or green, imitating lapis lazuli or turquoise. Jewels excavated from Egyptian tombs held great fascination for the 19th Century public. European jewellers filled this demand by producing a number of Egyptian-revival jewels. Those who owned the genuine article could have it mounted in the current style thus adapting it to the 19th Century fashion.