This small circular Art Nouveau brooch depicts the Greek goddess Hera, wife of Zeus. She can be recognized by her crown - as Zeus's wife, she was after all the queen of the gods- and her attribute, the peacock in the background. Her crown and the necklace around her neck are studded with small rose-cut diamonds.
Although not signed, the design for this brooch was made by Louis Armand Rault (1847-1903), who is considered one of the finest gold and silver chaser and medalist of the Art Nouveau era. He worked primarily for the Parisian jeweler Boucheron, particularly from 1868 to 1875. There are several comparable designs from his hand in which he depicts Greek goddesses, some of which can be found in the collection of the British Museum in London.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 20 mm diameter.
Weight: 3.95 grams.
Age: Art Nouveau era, circa 1900.
Material: The brooch no longer carries any hallmarks but has been acid tested as being 14k gold.
Condition: This brooch is in good vintage condition with only minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.