Queenly Substance


Victorian English Silver Brooch (LEO Design)

Until two and a half years ago, England’s Queen Victoria had been the longest-reigning monarch in British history.  Some of England’s greatest achievements (and changes) have occurred under a woman’s crown. Each of the “Big Three” (Elizabeth, Victoria and Elizabeth II) enjoyed long reigns and it’s fascinating to contemplate how much the world (and their country) changed during the course of their tenures.  Today, at 92 years old, Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning English monarch—with over 66 years on the throne.

The woman Elizabeth II recently surpassed was Victoria, who reigned for 63 years and 216 days. The silver brooch, shown above was made in the 1880’s, at which point Victoria was older and a widow.  Since fashion trends were set by the monarch, Late-Victorian jewelry tends to be hearty, substantial, and serious—much like the woman herself.  The pin above is decorated with a stylized Celtic Knot motif, adapted, no doubt, from an earlier Scottish or Irish relic.

Please click on the photo to learn more about this pin or check-out our on-line store to see our entire range of Late-Victorian and Edwardian brooches.

 

LEO Design's Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed.  While we contemplate our next shop location, please visit our on-line store which continues to operate  (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).

Follow us on Instagram: "leodesignhandsomegifts"

Follow us on Facebook: "LEO Design - Handsome Gifts"