Beauty and modesty

A reverse intaglio brooch, circa 1890. It is set with a reverse rock crystal carving of a bowl of flowers. The Victorian language of flowers, or floriography, was a coded system of communication using specific flowers to convey hidden messages of love. Here the violets symbolise modesty and the roses symbolise beauty. This carving is mother-of-pearl backed and set to an 18 carat frame. The brooch measures 1 and 1/8 inches by 2/3 of an inch. Cased and immaculate.

£550

Item ref : 1002

From the Language of Flowers [1834] :

Flowers have their language. Theirs is an eloquence that speaks in perfumed silence; and in the clearest, yet most delicate terms, expresses the noblest and tenderest emotions of the heart. No spoken word can equal the delicacy of the sentiment conveyed by a flower presented at a seasonable moment. The most tender impressions may be thus manifested without offence.