1903 Edwardian Plique A Jour and Paste 'Rd 404830' C Clasp Tube Hinge Silver Brooch

1903 Edwardian Plique A Jour and Paste 'Rd 404830' C Clasp Tube Hinge Silver Brooch featuring a beautiful Edwardian 1903 multicoloured gradient enamel work from a dark blue at the tip running through a turquoise, a green/yellow and lastly to red/pink. A bleeding technique in some of the cells has created a lovely two tone effect, enhancing the gradient of colours along each wing. The body is set with sparkling clear vari size paste stones, and with a pink/red cabochon for his eye. It has a 'C' Clasp and a tube hinge and it is signed on the underside on two raised rectangular cartouches 'Rd 404830', which, after much research, I found indicates a registered design in the UK. Registration number 404830 was issued in 1903 or shortly thereafter, and this registration protected this design legally. The British Registered Designs Act of 1883 established the system that allowed designers to protect their designs, ensuring they had exclusive rights to their creations. This system was intended to prevent the unauthorised copying of designs in various industries, including jewellery. This gorgeous brooch measures 4.9cm long and 2.6cm wide and he weighs 4.1g. The silver purity is unknown as this piece is not marked for silver or for a maker, only the Registration mark. it has a lovely patina.

Swallows hold various symbolic meanings, such as good luck, perseverance, adaptability, transformation, rebirth, and the arrival of spring. They are considered messengers between realms in some cultures and are seen as signs of hope, faith, and renewal in Christianity.