Dainty and darling!

This outstanding 19th century French Rococo Revival Demi-Parure is a truly rare treasure! Crafted during the era of Napoleon III circa 1860, this beautiful matching suite is set in a vibrant two-colored 18 carat gold, and features vibrant painted enamel portraits of two sweet cherubic putti.

A closer look reveals that these putti are in fact the angelic visages of Eros and Anteros (the sons of Aphrodite) playing with roses. The paintings truly evokes a sense of whimsy and tenderness:

On the top most painted brooch, Eros and Anteros are depicted together, playing; one cherub floats above, raining a sweet cascade of pink flowers onto the other cherub, who gathers them in a gleaming gold cornucopia.

In the bottom right painted brooch, a cherub once again holds the gleaming cornucopia, with spills out the pink flowers gathered earlier. In their left hand sits an arrow – it may either be Eros’s arrow of true love, or Anteros’ infamous lead arrow.

On the bottom left painted brooch, a cherub flies serenely through the hair, a golden cloth enveloping their body as they toss the pink flowers onto the vibrant glen.

Together, these painted brooches tell a beautiful story of love and romance. Eros and Anteros represent the two opposing sides of love after all. Eros, of course, is the God of love and lust, using his golden arrows to imbue those on Earth with an overwhelming passion and amour. Anteros, on the other hand, is the more restrained personification of love, reigning as the God of requited (returned) love, and punishing those who fail to reciprocate love with his lead arrows or golden club.  As a whole, the Demi Parure illustrate the wonderous balance of true love, and the two dueling aspects represented on either side.

This is a truly wonderful set that underscores the ongoing French fascination with revival/ The style, while firmly Napoleon III, pulls heavily from the Rococo ( see the bows and paintings of the Putti) which in itself speaks to a Greco-Roman archaeological revival (see the cherubic putti, Greek key-like frame detailing, and wreaths!).

This is one of the most exceptional sets we’ve ever had, mint condition in original leather fitted box with lavender silk decoration. A magnificent addition to any antique jewelry collection!

Materials and Features: 18ct gold in two colors, painted enamel, mother of pearl reverse

Age/Origin: French, Napoleon III 1860

Measurements: 21.93g, 5g and 1.75” per earring, 12.25g for brooch and 2.25”

Condition: Excellent, mint in box condition!

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.