Pretty As A Picture

Antique Hand Painted Portrait Pendant - Brooch

What an unusual find. I have seen and owned quite a few hand painted portrait pieces, but I find this one unique because of the frame and because of the size. It is very large. It is also very ornate. This antique Victorian hand painted pendant can also be worn as a brooch. 

                                                    

The details in the silver work are amazing. As in one of a kind. You can see the heart shaped cut out right below the portrait. All of the cut out work was done with a jeweler's saw. Quite a lot of work and obviously done by a skilled jeweler. It has six pink paste stones set around the portrait. 

                                                     

The back of the piece is marked "800". (silver)  It also appears to have been gold gilt. Most of the gold has disappeared and is replaced by a warm patina on the silver. The back, where the portrait sits, has a metal insert. A sturdy piece of fabric was placed behind the portrait. I assume for protection of the portrait and for a more finished look. 

                                                    

Most likely, this portrait is supposed to portray Marie Antoinette...with artistic license, of course. The portrait is signed, but I cannot make out the signature. The painting is beautifully done. Sad, but there is what appears to be water damage to the portrait. Still a gorgeous piece! It is under glass and I dare not remove it, for fear of further damage to the piece.

                                                    

You can see how big this piece is. Quite bold and beautiful! A statement piece for sure. 

                                              

                                                    

I believe that this piece dates to the mid to late 19th century. Possibly a bit older.

For more antique and vintage jewelry, please stop by Wicked Darling.

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Strong! Smart! Beautiful! Independent! Amazing!

    

"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud."....Coco Chanel 

I've had the privilege of being raised and graced by the presence of so many amazing women. My great grandmothers were both strong women. They had tough lives, but made it through with grace and perseverance. Both so different, but with qualities that made them so much alike. Strength, intelligence and kindness. The same goes for my grandmothers. One worked in a garment factory and the other had a restaurant. Both worked from sun up to sundown and still managed to raise their families with the same qualities that they learned from the great women in their lives.

My mama followed in their footsteps. An amazing and kindhearted woman! So loving. A great sense of humor. She has worked hard her entire life. Owning and running a florist business. Still managing to keep us all in check, and run a household. She did it all! She has passed down her values to me and my sister, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. AND she still runs circles around me! :)

My mother in law was also a wonderful woman! She was smart, funny, loving and hardworking. A joy to be around! Sadly we lost her a few years back, but her spirit is always with us. I learned so much from her! I miss her so much!

My sister is one of the strongest women that I have ever known. She has gone through so much, but has come out even stronger. Always kind. Patient. Generous. And above all, she keeps a sense of humor! No doubt, her children and grandchildren will follow in her footsteps.

Today is International Women's Day. Equality matters!

Sending love to all of the amazing women in my life!

All Dressed Up and No Where To Go

 

"Once you've dressed, and before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take at least one thing off." A quote from Coco Chanel. I don't believe that this young lady (pictured above) took Ms. Coco's advice. Or maybe she did. haha! Actually, that photo reminds me of myself, as a wee little lass. And even today, if I could get away with it, I would! I mean, who doesn't feel the need to wear a tiara on a daily basis? 

Vintage 1950s Beaded Glass Choker

Vintage 1940s to 1950s Rhinestone Cocktail Ring

Vintage 1950s Cobalt Blue Beaded Choker

If you are in the need of additional sparkly things, stop by Wicked Darling. For 10% off of your purchase, just use coupon code: TIARA

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Gold Fever

Long 31" Antique Victorian Gold Gilt Belcher Chain - Necklace

I will admit that I have gold fever! It can be any kind.  10K, 14K, 18K, gold gilt, gold plated...makes no difference. Don't get me wrong. I like silver as well, but I love gold! Here are a few pieces that I have in my Etsy shop.

                                                                           

Antique 14K Gold Victorian Locket 

Tiny Vintage Art Deco Gold Plated Pin

Antique Victorian 14K Gold Cross Pendant

Stop by Wicked Darling and catch gold fever! 

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