Jewellery, Watches, Antiquities and Objects of Vertu

An early 20th century Limoges enamel and diamond brooch, the circular brooch painted in Limoges enamel, depicting a female profile wearing a metallic head-dress and gown, to a millegrained surround of rose-cut diamonds and calibré-cut sapphires, in two colour precious metal mount, (some sapphires missing), diameter 29mm. £240-£300

Limoges enamelling developed in 15th century France and involves using very finely sifted glazes mixed with essential oils - clove oil for the detailed areas and lavender oil for the background and larger areas, resulting in an enamel with a bolder and glossier finish than most other painted enamels. The Renaissance revival style, which was a typical subject of the Limoges enamellists, became popular with some jewellers from the 1880s. Many of the women portrayed in such portraits are said to be famous actresses.