- Description
- Specifications
A charming antique horseshoe stag brooch from the Edwardian era, c1910! Packed with oodles of symbolism, this wonderful sterling silver brooch was made in Birmingham, year 1910 by notable English silversmiths company, Adie & Lovekin (c1863 - c1925). The design depicts a stag's head and antlers resting on a horseshoe. A bright amber coloured 'Cairngorm' Paste stone dazzles from the centre of the brooch. The front of the stag is three-dimensional with gorgeous details including an etched texture resembling fur, indented and pierced eyes, as well as a nicely detailed snout and mouth. The stag attaches onto the horseshoe with wire rings from behind, allowing for subtle movement. The horseshoe is decorated with striking blue guilloche enamel and silver 'lucky 7' nails and an inverted V to the top... all adding further character to this appealing antique brooch! A pin and c-loop attaches to the reverse, also there is a crisp set of English hallmarks to the back and makers marks "ALLD", which is that of Adie & Lovekin.
The stag is often is seen as a symbol of strength and was an ancient power symbol of Scotland and the Celts. The horseshoe has been long considered as a bearer of luck and protection, a motif which rose in popularity in late Victorian times. The 'Cairngorm' Paste stone adds further Scottish connotations to the brooch.
An incredible little example of symbolic antique jewellery, it would make a wonderful gift!
Edwardian, c1910 | |
Sterling silver | |
Paste (imitating Scotland's Cairngorm quartz) | |
Set of Birmingham stamps - 'anchor' (denoting Birmingham), 'rampant lion' letter 'l' (denoting year 1910), and makers marks 'ALLD' (Adie & Lovekin) | |
4.42 grams | |
2.50cm x 2.40cm | |
Superb antique condition. Besides normal surface wear there is no damage to the enamel, stag or horseshoe, which remain in excellent condition. The paste stone bears some facet edge abrasions which is consisted with age (seen under magnification). The pin retains good tension and works well |