A fabulous, detailed 14k gold Essex crystal pendant featuring the most adorable bulldog!
Just look at that face...and those muscles! What a precious pooch.
Essex crystal pieces usually portray animals, which is why I love them so much! That, and the fact that I also adore rock crystal jewelry. These pieces are made by carving onto the flat side of a rock crystal cabochon, and then painting the carving to create a 3-D looking image when viewed from the front.
The story behind Essex crystal pieces is quite interesting, because it's a story of misattribution. Although the technique existed previously, it was likely introduced to England in the 1860s by a man called Thomas Cook and sold to Hancock's in London. However, when people saw these stunning pieces, they assumed them to be the work of the famous miniature artist William Essex, and the name stuck! These pieces are also sometimes referred to as reverse intaglio (intaglios are carved on the front side).
Although it is unconfirmed, some believe Emile Marius Pradier of Belgium was the original creator of the technique.
Unmarked but tested as 14k gold.
Listing is for the pendant only. Chain sold separately.
+++ Measurements +++
7/8" diameter
1/4" bale
+++ Condition +++
Lovely condition with minor age-related wear. There is a small scuff on the upper left side of the crystal dome, so faint and small it's not at all noticeable when worn, but worth mentioning. Some minor wear to the gold setting.
+++ Please read +++
This item is not new, and as such, it has wear commensurate with age. As with all older vintage and antique items, please handle with care.
All items are sold as-is, and I do my best to point out all condition issues and provide a detailed description and photographs.
Unless specified, items have not been cleaned.
I do not accept returns or offer refunds. Please see all photos, read the entire description, and ask any questions before purchasing.