ENCHANTING LILAC MESSAGE ( Victorian Jewelry Ivory Brooch ): During
the reign of Queen Victoria the “Language of Flowers” hit its peak.
Flowers became a form of communication between lovers and friends.
Victorian Romanticism found a perfect expression in carved ivory and
bone bouquets and sprays of blossoms. This beautifully hand carved ivory
brooch – a spray of lilacs – conveys the floral message of
enchantment, first love and youthful innocence. (c. 1860) The grain of
the ivory is visible on the back and the front has a high gloss finish.
Much of the finest ivory carving was brought back as tourist souvenirs
from France. Ivory was used in a variety of styles through many
different eras, reaching its height in the 1880’s when colorless
jewels became the vogue. Typical of early Victorian brooches this piece
has an extended pin stem (meant to be pushed back through the clothing
to keep the brooch in place), C catch and tube hinge. The carving is so
detailed that you can almost inhale the heady scent of lilacs.
Condition: Excellent. No chips or loss to carving. Size: 2 1/8” long,
1 1/4” wide.
