Hummingbird

A piece of zoomorphic jewellery, circa 1870, a Broad-billed hummingbird  mounted to a silver Celtic design brooch. The hummingbird was the most popular bird used in jewellery in the 19th century due to its colourful iridescent plumage. From Godey’s Lady’s Book, December 1874 : Hummingbird ornaments are so desirable because they are in effect jewels themselves, their colours compare to gemstones … their glancing heads are like a scrap of flaming foil as they perch saucily with outspread wings. The brooch is three inches in length and immaculate.

£950
Item ref : MB8