Victorian Enamel Snake Watch Brooch

Watch brooches or pins were a new form of jewelry that emerged in the later part of the 19th century. Remaining in vogue for some time, the back or underside typically had a vertical hook or another attachment fitting that was used to suspend or securely hold a pocket or lapel watch. The brooch was then attached to the bodice or lapel.

Here we have a lovely Victorian example of this versatile piece in that familiar snake motif quite popular during this time. A most artful use of enamel in gloriously vivid colors of opaque black and translucent copper-orange, green and blue on silver. The enamel on silver is used to replicate the skin of the snake with its scale-like mosaic of color. The underside of gilded silver displays the original pin fittings with the characteristic C-clasp as well as two side fitting which also were used to suspend chains to the watch.

Condition: Excellent for the top. One small area of wear to the head of the snake in the orange enamel. Reverse shows wear to the gilt surface; watch center fitting and C-clasp have been re-soldered; some dark patina most of the fittings.

Hallmarks: Sterling, a tiny maker's mark and another small hallmark now illegible, possibly Continental.

Measurements: More than 2-1/8 inches (5.5 cm) by just shy of 2 inches (5 cm) by ½ of an inch (1.2 cm) thick. This antique pendant locket has a weight of 24.4 grams.

Date & Origin: Circa 1890; possibly Continental in origin.