An exceptionally fine antique Italian Grand Tour micromosaic pair of earrings with their original hooks created at the Vatican Mosaic Studio from the early 1800s depicting scenes from the Roman Forum. Each earring features an oval shaped micromosaic mounted in onyx descending from a circular onyx medallion with a centrally mounted pearl. 
Pearls secure and evenly matched. 
Original sterling silver settings and hooks. 
 
Around 1775, the mosaicists Giacomo Raffaelli and Cesare Aguatti “rediscovered” the technique of “spun enamel” mosaic, already used at the beginning of the 1600s by the mosaicist of the Vatican school, Marcello Provenzale, whereby miniscule tesserae were obtained by the section of enamel rods formed in fusion. The two mosaicists produced the first “minute mosaics” or “micromosaics”, ushering in a new era of mosaic that became “miniaturized” and was used to decorate small everyday objects such as boxes, tobacco boxes and jewellery. Micromosaics became the most sought-after souvenirs of Rome, even by the aristocracy on the “Grand Tour”.
 
During the first half of the 19th century it was customary for the ladies in the Grand Tour to have a parure in gold or gilt silver made of plaquettes in micromosaic, each of which illustrated a different location.
 
The mosaicists of the Studio were the most skilful interpreters of this technique, so much so that the popes themselves commissioned gifts for European sovereigns such as the famous table with the representation of Achilles’ shield that Pope Leo XIII gave in 1826 to Charles X, King of France.
 
Sourced in France and curated by Paris-based Vivienne Birt for Chateau Love, these antique micromosaic earrings embody the timeless sophistication and meticulous artistry that defines our carefully selected chateau-worthy collection of luxurious antique and vintage jewelry. 
 
 
MATERIAL:
Onyx, Pearl, Enamel, Sterling Silver 
 
AGE: 
Early 1800s
 
CONDITION: 
Good– Surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE:
Length: 5.5 cm
Width: 1.5 cm
 
WEIGHT: 
4.93 g each
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant velvet box.