Antique Georgian Miniature Portrait Pendant Brooch Queen Maria I With Box

Details

Dating to the late 18th century, this exceptionally rare and beautiful antique miniature portrait pendant-brooch has been remarkably preserved for more than two centuries and remains in remarkable condition. At its centre is a swinging double-sided locket, set with two finely cut rock crystal windows with a distinctive hourglass silhouette. Within sits an original, finely detailed watercolour miniature believed to depict Queen Maria I of Portugal, shown with her characteristic pouf hairstyle and adorned in regal dress, necklace and earrings.

Queen Maria I of Portugal (also known as Dona Maria I) reigned from 1777 to 1816. The miniature appears to be inspired by her most celebrated official portrait, painted by the Irish artist Thomas Hickey between 1781 and 1783. During this period, portrait miniatures of reigning monarchs were highly popular and often commissioned as prestigious gifts of royal favour. 

The portrait is housed within an exquisite silver frame decorated with scrolling foliate motifs and surmounted by an ornate crown embellished with a vibrant assortment of foil-backed paste gemstones - a distinctive decorative style popular in 18th-century Portuguese jewellery. Traces of original gilding remain visible on the reverse, and the piece has been carefully updated over time with a later silver pin and locking catch, most likely during the 19th century, for extra security and peace of mind when worn.  

A rare museum-quality survival from the Georgian era, this piece presents an exceptional opportunity to acquire an authentic, historic piece. It is even accompanied by its original antique presentation box, fitted with a cream velvet and silk interior and finished externally in rich red leather with gold-tooled floral decoration and a double-hook side clasp. 

WEIGHT: 13.8 grams 

MEASURES: Height 58mm x Width 34mm x Depth 6mm – Locket measures 20mm x 26mm 

METAL: Silver/ Gold gilt

STONES: Paste/ Glass 

AGE: Georgian. (Circa 1780 - 1790) 

MARKS: No marks, typical for items made before hallmarking legislation was introduced. 

CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age. 

ITEM NUMBER: AJ479