A spectacular Victorian desk seal of exceptional quality featuring richly faceted deep amethyst glass adorned with intricate gilt decoration in multiple patterns. This is a piece of extraordinary craftsmanship and visual drama.
Key Features:
- Deep amethyst purple faceted glass with jewel like brilliance
- Multiple bands of ornate gilt decoration including lattice, scrollwork, and geometric pattern.
- Personalised monogram seal matrix (appears to show intertwined initials)
- Substantial weight and impressive presence
- Multiple faceted sections creating dramatic light refraction
- Exceptional condition with gilt decoration largely intact
This seal is a tour de force of Victorian decorative arts. The deep amethyst glass has been expertly faceted into multiple geometric sections, each catching and refracting light to create a mesmerising display of purple hues from rich plum to lighter lavender depending on the angle and illumination.
The gilt decoration is extraordinary in its complexity and variety. Each faceted section features different ornamental patterns: intricate lattice work, flowing scrolls, geometric crosshatching, stylised foliate motifs, and delicate banding. The gold contrasts beautifully against the deep purple glass, creating a sumptuous, jewel like effect.
Amethyst glass was highly prized in the Victorian era, associated with royalty, spirituality, and luxury. The deep purple colour was achieved through the addition of manganese or gold to the glass mixture, and the finest examples like this one display rich, even colouration throughout.
The seal matrix bears a personalised monogram, making this a bespoke piece created for a specific individual. The intertwined initials would have been pressed into warm sealing wax, leaving an elegant mark of identity and authenticity on important correspondence.
The craftsmanship required to create such a piece was considerable: the glass cutting and faceting, the application of multiple gilt patterns, the casting and finishing of the silver-plated mount, and the engraving of the personalised seal matrix. This was not a mass-produced item but a quality piece for a discerning client.
Condition: Please examine all photographs carefully. This is an authentic Victorian antique with character and patina consistent with its age and use. The gilt decoration shows remarkable retention for a piece of this age, though some natural wear is present. The glass is in excellent condition with no chips or cracks visible.
A museum-quality piece perfect for collectors of Victorian glass, desk accessories, decorative seals, or anyone who appreciates the marriage of function and beauty. The combination of faceted amethyst glass, elaborate gilt decoration, classical lion's head mount, and personalised monogram makes this an exceptional and rare find.
6cm Length
