A quirky Edwardian rock crystal brooch depicting a dog.
 
The dog, a type of hound, has been painted into the carved rock crystal and is mounted with a fine ropetwist birder.
 
The mother of pearl backing is visible to the reverse and the brooch has a sprung pin.
 
This technique is made by the rock crystal being cut into a cabochon shape and a detailed design carved into it from the reverse. The image is painted inside the crystal so that when viewed from the front it appears in three dimensions. This technique is known as a “reverse intaglio.” The technique is sometimes referred to as an 'Essex crystal.'
 
Era: Edwardian, 1901 - 1920
Measurements: Brooch is 2.3cm diameter, 7.9 grams in weight
Hallmarks: Unmarked - tests 18ct gold