Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a magnificent example of a Victorian 'Sash Pin,' a large-scale brooch designed to secure a heavy silk sash at the hip. It features two heraldic winged griffins flanking a central bezel, rendered in a rich, patinated gilt brass that captures the era's obsession with mythological grandeur.
Story
Victorian women used these oversized pins to anchor dramatic silk sashes during the late 1800s. The griffin, a guardian of treasure, was a popular motif for women who wanted their jewelry to signal both strength and mystery.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece reflects the high-quality die-struck brass work of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Manufacturers in Providence, Rhode Island, or the jewelry centers of France often produced these elaborate 'costume' pieces for the growing middle class who desired the look of solid gold.
Condition & Value
The metalwork is in good structural shape with a lovely aged patina. However, the central stone is missing, and there are visible solder remnants where it was once secured. The pin back appears functional. The loss of the stone reduces value by roughly 40%. Value is currently limited by the missing central stone/cabochon.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.