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Victorian 15ct Gold Novelty Brooch of Cupid with Tortoise & Mouse set with Sapphires, Rubies , Rose Diamonds & Natural Pearls

211Z
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A 15ct gold brooch featuring Cupid, a tortoise, and a mouse would represent a layered and complex allegory about love, mixing speed and slowness, passion and modesty. While no single mythological tale features this exact combination, its meaning would be drawn from the individual symbolism of each element. The brooch likely dates from the Victorian era, when such classical allegories in jewellery were popular. It has been set with sapphires, rubies, rose diamonds and two natural pearls.
The meanings of each symbol are as follows.
Cupid
As the Roman god of desire, affection, and erotic love (known as Eros in Greek mythology), Cupid is the central symbol of love in the brooch.

The overall message of Cupid in jewellery can represent the magic of falling in love and the irresistible power of desire. 

Tortoise
The tortoise provides a powerful contrast to the passionate Cupid.
  • Longevity and stability: With its long lifespan and slow, deliberate movements, the tortoise is a symbol of enduring love, patience, and commitment.
  • Protection: The tortoise’s shell represents security and the protection of a stable home or family life.
Mouse
The mouse adds a third, more humble, dimension to the brooch’s meaning.
  • Modesty and quiet perseverance: Unlike more dramatic animals, the mouse represents humble persistence and working diligently behind the scenes. In the context of love, this could mean that true love grows from small, consistent efforts rather than dramatic, impulsive acts.
  • Good fortune: In some traditions, the mouse is a symbol of luck and quiet success. 
Combined meaning of the brooch.
The combination of these three figures in a love brooch creates a profound message:
  • Balancing passion with commitment: The brooch suggests that true, lasting love is not just a fiery passion struck by Cupid’s arrow, but is also built on the stable, patient, and enduring qualities of the tortoise.
  • Humble beginnings: The mouse’s inclusion indicates that this love, while divinely inspired, flourishes through small acts of modesty and care.
  • A balanced relationship: The imagery serves as a reminder to balance the wild, impulsive nature of desire (Cupid) with steady commitment (tortoise) and modest, consistent effort (mouse).
The Details

Essentials

Item Number:
211Z
Dimensions:
20 mm (H)
Length:
5.8 cm
Place of Origin:
England
Discovered:
3 months ago

Stones

Round Cut 12 Sapphires
Cut:
Round Cut
Weight:
0.9 carat
2. Natural Pearls
Dimensions:
4 mm
Round Cut 2 Rubies
Cut:
Round Cut
Weight:
0.1 carat

Hallmarks

Unmarked, 15ct gold
Many pieces of antique jewellery were unmarked because hallmark regulations were not obligatory until 1972.

Condition

Fair
Good
Very Good
Excellent

Care Tips

  • Take extra care with soft or brittle gemstones
  • Check delicate settings regularly
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