A magnificent piece of mid-to-late 19th-century history from the celebrated Casalta workshop in Naples, Italy. This brooch carries a prestigious Royal connection: the original box confirms Casalta were the official suppliers to the Prince of Savoy-Carignan, a prominent member of the Italian Royal House. During the "Grand Tour" era, wealthy travellers would visit this specific workshop to buy the finest jewellery as a mark of status and taste.
The brooch is a masterclass in the Etruscan Revival style, which was highly fashionable in the 1800s. It features a large, polished natural cabochon coral in a delicate salmon-pink hue, framed by intricate gold gilt metalwork. The design uses a technique called granulation-tiny hand-applied gold beads that create a rich, textured lace effect, typical of high end Neapolitan craftsmanship.
Maker - L. Casalta, Naples (original silk lined Royal presentation box included).
Origin - Naples, Italy
Circa 1860
Condition: excellent antique condition. The coral has a beautiful natural lustre, and the gilt work remains crisp. The rare survival of the original box, featuring the Royal appointment label, adds significant provenance.
