Summary

Gold brooch with a pink conch shell cameo, attributed to Lamborn & Wagner, Melbourne, circa 1880.

This cameo brooch is typical of the work by Lamborn and Wagner, who would have produced many in this style.
Other examples of their work expanded on this style and were more elaborate in their use of gold, as well as enthusiasm in the displays of leaves and tendrils. They also often incorporated an emu, kangaroo or bird.

The fact this piece is set in 9ct gold and not a higher grade gold, is an indication of a product crafted to keep costs to a minimum, to make it more accessible to a wider section of the community.

Lamborn & Wagner were an early manufacturer of jewellery in Melbourne, having been established by William Lamborn and Leopold Wagner in 1856. The company traded through until 1884.

Physical Description

Pink conch shell cameo, featuring a woman in a classical style, set in a 9ct gold surround of vine leaves and tendrils, with a flower at the top and at the bottom.

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