Brooches Maria

Dating to the late 18th century, this exceptionally rare and beautiful antique miniature portrait pendant-brooch has been remarkably preserved for more than two centuries and remains in remarkable more→condition. At its centre is a swinging double-sided locket, set with two finely cut rock crystal windows with a distinctive hourglass silhouette. Within sits an original, finely detailed watercolour miniature believed to depict Queen Maria I of Portugal, shown with her characteristic pouf hairstyle and adorned in regal dress, necklace and earrings. Queen Maria I of Portugal (also known as Dona Maria I) reigned from 1777 to 1816. The miniature appears to be inspired by her most celebrated official …