Victorian Love Knot Appraisal

Victorian Gilded Love Knot Brooch

The item is a Victorian-era love knot brooch, likely constructed from gilded base metal, possibly brass or copper, given the warm golden hue and visible signs of wear exposing areas of underlying metal or patina. Its design features an intricate interwoven knot pattern, comprising several overlapping cylindrical or tubular elements, creating a three-dimensional, symmetrical oval shape. The brooch appears to be approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in length based on its appearance in a human hand. The 'knot' forms a classic love knot, symbolic of eternal love and commitment, popular during the Victorian period. Notable features include the textured surface, which shows faint, irregular striations or perhaps remnants of a chased or engraved pattern, particularly visible on the outer loops. The surface exhibits significant wear and light scratches consistent with age and use, especially on the raised areas. There is a noticeable dark greenish-brown patina in the recessed areas and along the edges, indicative of oxidation over time. No explicit maker's marks or signatures are clearly discernible from the provided images, but the crafting suggests a mass-produced, yet well-finished, piece characteristic of the late 19th-century jewelry market. The reverse side, partially visible, shows a simple pin mechanism typical of brooches from this era. The quality of craftsmanship is generally good for its type, with smooth curves and a well-formed knot. The overall condition, while showing wear, is robust, suggesting it has been preserved reasonably well for its estimated age of C1880.