Circular brooch, carved mother of pearl and oxidised silver, by Henry Wilson, England, 1910-1930

A mother of pearl roundel, carved with the profile of Christ crowned with thorns, set into a circular frame. The frame is of oxidised silver, decorated with alternating large and small bosses of gilded silver. The frame is bordered on its inner and outer edge with a narrow raised strip of a pinker shade of gilding. The flat back is of lightly oxidised silver, edged with scallops that are part of the construction and secure the frame in place. A slightly bent gold pin is held by a silver catch and hinge. A silver safety chain is attached.

Given by John and Jim Howden and Marion Gladwell in memory of Isobel Howden (née Wilson)

The crown of thorns, subtly carved around the head of the male figure, indicates that the roundel is a portrayal of Christ. Wilson made a significant quantity of devotional jewels in addition to his church plate and architectural work. The work is unsigned but relates directly to a larger cast roundel by Wilson which the V&A acquired from his daughter Orrea Pernel in 1962.

M.15-2014