Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic pewter circular brooch featuring a deeply recessed, four-quadrant Celtic quaternary knot design. The contrast between the polished raised knotwork and the darkened, textured background highlights the complex, continuous interlacing pattern.
Story
Crafted in Cornwall, this brooch carries a design language born in the early medieval period. The endless knot represents eternity, with no beginning and no end. It was made by artisans keeping ancient Cornish metalworking traditions alive.
Maker / Origin
St Justin was founded in 1984 in Cornwall, England, starting in a small shed before growing into a renowned workshop. They specialize in recreating historical Celtic, Saxon, and Viking designs using traditional pewter casting methods. Each piece is hand-finished by local craftsmen, preserving the region's rich metalworking heritage.
Condition & Value
The brooch is in very good vintage condition with light surface wear and minor oxidation consistent with age. The pin mechanism on the back is fully functional and secure. Excellent condition preserves its full decorative value.
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.