French Neoclassical Gold Brooch Cupid & Psyche C1760 An Heirloom Of Love

French Neoclassical 14ct Gold Cupid & Psyche Brooch, c.1760
An Heirloom of Love and Friendship from the Georgian Era
Subject & Medium
An exceptional French Neoclassical 18th-century oval brooch, c.1760, portraying the timeless myth of Cupid and Psyche. Crafted in high-carat 14ct gold appliqué, the figures appear against a rich crimson woven silk ground, preserved beneath domed protective glass. The reverse is formed in silver-gilt, retaining its original elongated steel pin and open C-clasp. This union of gold, textile, and glass exemplifies the refined sentimental jewels of the late Georgian period.
Pieces of this importance were worn by the most discerning patrons of the age, exchanged as tokens of loyalty, passion, and cultivated taste.
Composition & Technique
Gold appliqué relief: Finely cut 14ct gold figures depicting Cupid and Psyche. Silver-gilt backing. Total weight: 11.32 grams.
Silk ground: Crimson silk symbolizing passion, constancy, and enduring love.
Protective glazing: Rare domed glass cover surviving intact after more than 250 years.
Silver-gilt construction: Reverse formed in silver, gilded for elegance and strength.
Original fittings: Retains its Georgian elongated pin and open C-clasp.
This sophisticated mixed-media method—gold over silk beneath glass—was among the most prized techniques of the era, uniting luxury materials with symbolic storytelling.
A Jewel of Romance & Philosophy
This Georgian jewel unites Cupid and Psyche, gold and silk, love and friendship, in one timeless Neoclassical treasure. It is more than an ornament—it is a wearable allegory of loyalty, desire, and Enlightenment ideals.
Classical Allegory
The design recalls the immortal embrace of Cupid (Eros), god of love, and Psyche, the mortal maiden whose trials won her divine favour and eternal union. Their story symbolized the harmony of body and soul, passion and devotion.
Beside a classical altar, the inscription reads in French: “La Joie et l’Amitié” (Joy and Friendship). To 18th-century society, this signified not only romantic love but love ennobled by friendship—an allegory deeply resonant for Georgian collectors and gift-givers.
Such pieces were cherished as heirlooms, carrying messages across generations of romance, philosophy, and refined artistry.
Dimensions
Oval: 4 cm (height) × 3 cm (width) × 0.65 cm (depth).
Provenance
Private collection, United Kingdom
Acquired through a notable southern auction, curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Its distinguished provenance enhances both its desirability and collectability.
Condition
Fair to good antique condition. Gold figures intact with gentle wear. Crimson silk ground shows fading and minor losses. Reverse with tarnish and gilt wear. Glass bears light scratches; pin slightly bent but functional. Original fittings preserved. Structurally sound with authentic age-related character.
The survival of such a jewel, complete with original fittings, is exceptionally rare—an opportunity to acquire a museum-quality Neoclassical treasure.
Worldwide Delivery
Expertly packaged and fully insured for secure international shipment. Collectors worldwide can buy with confidence.
Buy It Now — Secure this rare 18th-century heirloom for your collection today.
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