Victorian Lion-Serpent Brooch

The Victorians' fascination with exotic mythological creatures was only limited by their imagination.  A fierce lion-headed serpent with a tail of flame-like acanthus leaves warily guards this brooch with a jealous green eye.  A glowing pearl is set in the center.  Created by Carter, Howe in 14kt gold, circa 1890.

The brooch is beautifully crafted.  It is secured with a "C" clasp and pin.  A chatelaine hook allows a watch or other pendant to be suspended beneath the brooch.  Part of the beauty of Victorian jewels is the care with which they were designed and crafted.

This brooch was created by Carter, Howe & Company (predecessor to Carter, Gough & Co.), a maker of beautiful brooches and other jewels during the decades around 1900.  The firm's mark, an arrowhead surrounding a "C", is found on the clasp.  The clasp is also stamped "14K" for the purity of the gold.

Name:  Serpent and Acanthus

Cost:  $925

Measurements:  This Victorian brooch is crafted in 14kt yellow gold and weighs 5.1 grams.   It measures 1 1/8" tall by just over 1" wide.