Unusual early c19th flower brooch depicting what appears to be a stylised Crown Imperial (fritillaria imperialis)which according to the Etiquette of Flowers of 1862 represented majesty and power. The hidden meaning of flowers called floriography had a surge of interest in England from 1820-1880 with numerous books being printed.The brooch belongs to the family of late Georgian and early Victorian flower jewellery with bloomed and chased goldwork often in two or three colours of gold.A great collection can be seen in the Hull Grundy gift in the British Museum.
The high carat gold brooch is finely textured,the hanging blooms set with five tiny rubies. c.1830 1.5 inches long.