This beautiful, silver enamel pansy brooch was created by the celebrated Norwegian silversmith, Marius Hammer (1847-1927). Marius Hammer began to produce enamel jewellery in 1890. I believe this pin dates to circa 1910. The pansy is, of course, a highly sentimental and symbolic flower. In the language of love it says ‘I think of you’.

The pansy measures 1 and 3/8” (3.5cms) by 1 and 3/16” (3cms) across. It weighs 9.6 grams.

The modelling of the shape with overlapping petals is very realistic. The top half is enamelled in lemon yellow with attractive veining. The lower half has a splash of dark blue. Right at the centre is a drop of palest , shimmering green with deeper yellow detailing. Everything is outlined in gold.

At centre back is the mark of Marius Hammer, an 'M' superimposed on a hammer. It is also inscribed '930s', in fact a higher grade of silver than sterling. It has a very solid, old style c clip. The back has an attractive, pale gold wash typical of these older pieces.

This truly beautiful pansy is in wonderful condition and will make a worthy addition to a collection. In wear you would really think it was a real pansy. It comes to you tissue wrapped in a gift box.

Marius Hammer founded his workshop in the late nineteenth century in Bergen, Norway. Along with David Andersen and Jacob Tostrup he was a pioneer in the development of enamel jewellery. Items by Marius Hammer are always wonderful and quite rare.