Antique, Victorian Silver black dot paste twin flying swallows, birds, brooch. Circa 1860

A beautiful pair of Silver flying swallows, each featuring black-dot paste stones mounted on the body wings and the top of their heads.
Features include feather like engraving, tiny beaks and each bird is embellished with a two cabachon ruby eyes.
The swallows are both carrying a section of chain in their beak which is attached to a paste mounted leaf or clover.
Complete with C-clasp fitting.

Highly collectable, this lovely paste brooch has all of the original paste stones.

The swallow mates for life and is a symbol of enduring love and loyalty. It also represents a safe return home. Sea voyages during the Victorian period were long and hazardous.
The swallow is the first bird seen by sailors when they are nearing land, the swallow represents “I will return to you”. This romantic brooch was most likely given to a sweetheart as a token of love!

Hallmarked: Sterling and 935

MEASUREMENTS: 41 x 44mm
HALLMARKS: As above
CONDITION: Good
DATE: Victorian (1837 to 1901)