This is an incredible 19th century brooch depicting a lion hunting and two goats amongst flora in 23ct gold. It is set in an ornately shaped bezel surrounded by a fancy link chain border. The beautiful green emanates from behind the hunting scene. This is an outstanding example of craftsmanship and artistry. Thewa work is said to have been created in 1767 and is not like any other process practiced in India. The technology was passed from fathers to sons who started learning at the age of five. Because of British colonialism in India some works were taken back to Britain and have found their way to British antique markets. Thewa work is recognised for its distinction by European jewellery historians. Only five families were still producing Thewa work in Pratapgarh in the mid 20th century. In the late nineteenth and early part of the 20th centuries British Indian government employees were tasked with investigating Indian craftwork. The officials made erroneous reports on how Tewa work was produced with enamel. The secrets of producing Thewa work have been closely guarded for hundreds of years. Source: Traditional Jewelry of India, Oppi Untracht. Published by Thames and Hudson in 1997. Materials. 15k gold and green glass .

Dimensions: 28mm wide 20mm long 6.35mm thick.
Condition: Good. commensurate with age and handmade nature. Very small surface crack in glass on left side. Does not detract from the overall impression.
Era: 19th century.