Important pair of miniatures mounted as large brooches, signed by artist Achille-Ernest Mouret. Mr Mouret exhibited miniatures at the famed Paris Salon between 1844 and 1876 and his works are among museum collection internationally. I found one in the Cincinnati Art Museum, USA.
An exceptional find, the original paired couple in their youth - likely their wedding portraits, still together and magnificently crafted by artist, Mourat who dates them 1846. They are made up in large brooch frames, and while I did not open them to be positive, they are painted in gouache on mother of pearl, allowing for more light and life to flow through to the viewer. The few minuscule flaked spots would also indicate they are painted directly on the mother of pearl plaques visible from the open back side. The Pair of brooches are in silver with a generous layer of gold (vermeil), some of which has been polished away in the 180 years since they were crafted, particularly on the man, evidence his wife wore or handled his portrait more. I do not know the names or story of these two beautiful people. But having a listed artist is a step in the right direction for a collector who wishes to try to learn who they are/were.
Very good to excellent condition, as noted above for wear on the gold of the gentleman's brooch mount. Long Victorian (c.1846) era pins with c-clamp, and each has a hook for a watch to be hung if desired, below. The brooches are large at 2 5/8" x 2" oval, 1/4" thick plus the pin. There are no dents on the brooch mounts and the slightly convex polished cover glass is perfect on each one. Because they are painted on mother of pearl, a couple of very tiny flakes appear on the paintings, not much at all and definitely not distracting to the naked eye. You will see them on the greatly enlarged images for your review. The paintings are each 2" x 1 1/2" oval. Her face is just exquisite at 5/8", chin to hairline, as is his at 3/4", chin to hairline. Remarkable artist, Mouret! They will only be sold as a pair. They have been side by side now for 180 years. I will not be the one to break the couple up.
