Antique Figural Lady Face Brooch or Pin Gold Princess 1920s Sgnd Fred Gray

Price $75

"From the 1920's or 30's, this portrait pin is a very unusual signed piece. It is made of silver pot metal, and if you look at the back, you will see it has an unusual molded design of pierced circles. The princess is painted in 24 kt gold paint and is wearing a crown of sorts. A most unusual feature about this brooch is the ring on the right side of her head, which was made to attach a ladys' watch chain, which was commonly worn in the top pocket of a blouse. Her head scarf is a molded repousse of branches and leaves. The raised facial features, as well as the crescent moon necklace, are raised in high relief and painted with glossy enamels. She also has a raised rhinestone head dress. The enamel paints have light wear on one eye. The rhinestones are both clear and grayish. The gold paint is in excellent condition with no missing paint or wear. It is signed HYG on the back, and although no information is available about this signature, I attribute this piece to Fred Gray Co, out of Providence RI. They made ornate pot metal pieces like this since about 1919, and I believe there were other family members involved who used their initials as signatures. The brooch is all original and has not been modified in any way. Has the original pot metal C Clasp on the back and is 2 1/2"" long x 1 3/8"" wide."