Brass Overlay Jewelry Appraisal

Vintage Black Lacquer or Wood Bangle with Filigree Brass Overlay

This item is a vintage bangle bracelet featuring a dark, possibly black lacquered or wooden core, adorned with intricate brass or gilt-metal filigree overlay. The bangle has a hinged construction, indicating it is designed to open for easier wear. The main body of the bracelet is wide and appears to have a smooth, polished finish, presenting a dark gray to black color with some visible wear and minor surface abrasions, suggesting either a dark wood, horn, or lacquered material that has aged. The ornate brass overlay is applied in sections around the circumference, specifically at the hinge and likely opposite sides. This metalwork features a delicate, openwork floral or scroll pattern, characteristic of filigree designs. The brass exhibits a warm, aged patina with some tarnishing and possible verdigris in the recesses, indicating its age and material. The hinge mechanism, also brass, includes a pin that secures the two halves of the bangle. While no specific maker's marks or signatures are visible in the provided image, the craftsmanship of the filigree suggests a piece from the early to mid-20th century, possibly Asian or Art Deco in style. The overall condition shows signs of use consistent with its age, including minor scratches on the dark body and expected wear on the metal, but no major structural damage or repairs are immediately apparent. The stark contrast between the dark body and the intricate gold-toned metalwork is a key aesthetic feature, highlighting both the material and the detailed ornamentation. The quality of the filigree work is moderate to good, with clear, defined patterns.