Reverse carved crystal was a technique created by cutting a piece of rock quartz crystal into a convex form and then polishing it into a cabochon shape. An image is carved into the flat side of the crystal and then hand painted. From the front, the picture appears to be almost three-dimensional. Many different images were used in reverse carved crystal jewelry and artwork but animals were some of the most common motifs. Fox hunting was a culture full of tradition and ceremony. Adopted by the British Nobility as a sport, riding "hounds" became a sign of status and social standing. Equestrian and hunting motifs became very popular and were often found in jewelry!
A wonderful reverse carved crystal pin from the Art Deco (ca1920) era! Traditionally worn as part of a fox hunter's sporting ensemble, this style of pin was typically used to secure a man's neck scarf. Made of 14kt yellow gold, the pin features a carved Essex crystal cabochon with the hand painted image of the scene of a fox hunt. A horseback rider is dressed in typical equestrian attire, including a long red coat, black hat, white breeches, and tall riding boots. The rider?guides the reigns of a beautiful brown horse, who is shown jumping over a fence, a hunting hound dog running alongside in the grass. The bezel set Essex crystal is affixed to a gold bar, which is crafted to look like a 3-dimensional riding crop with white gold accents. On the reverse side of the riding crop is a gold bar pin and clasp stamped "14K." This stunning pin is still collectible today, worn by both men and women. Perfect for the equestrian enthusiast, it may be fastened to a neck scarf or blazer, and would look fabulous worn with other similar pins in a collection!
Measurements: The pin measures 2 5/8" long. The carved Essex crystal has a 5/8" diameter and is 1/4" thick. The overall pennyweight of the piece is 4.1 dwt.
Condition: The overall condition of the pin is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold setting or to the reverse carved Essex crystal. The pin clasp is secure and in good working condition.
