DATE: Victorian, c.1890

A stunning antique Tiffany & Co. flower brooch by G. Paulding Farnum. Dating from the late 19th century, the peony's petals are beautifully constructed in 14k gold and exquisitely rendered in purple enamel, paling towards the centre. The gold stem forms a long, graceful curve, looping back down to the centre of the flower - very much influenced by the budding Art Nouveau movement - and the gold displays a lovely textured finish.

Farnum designed a range of flower brooches for Tiffany, most famously including a small collection of orchids (in this style) displayed at the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle - heavily praised for their beauty and craftsmanship, as well as the remarkable botanical accuracy. This example is slightly later, dating from the 1890s, and surviving in near pristine condition - signed Tiffany & Co. on the back.

MEASUREMENTS 

5.6 x 2.2cm

WEIGHT 

9.3g

MARKS 

Signed Tiffany & Co.

Tests as 14k gold

CONDITION 

Excellent