Georgian Hair Brooch - Lace, Fichu, Bonnet Veil Pin
Lovely late Georgian, Early Victorian Fichu Pin or brooch in a 10k gold setting with braided dark brown hair under glass, and engraved with initials (I believe) D M on the backside. Brooch measures just over 1" in diameter, with period correct tube hinge and "c" clasp closure. In very good condition.
These tiny Lace or Fichu pins are so called because they were frequently used to confine a length of lace at the neckline or at the throat, or sometimes to attach drapery at the shoulder. It is interesting to note that although the term “pin” to mean “brooch” is an American custom, in England these little brooches were always referred to as “pins,” either lace pins or handkerchief pins, probably because their function was similar to that of a dress pin, to hold something in place, and was not merely ornamental. Dresses of the day had very low cut front bodices; consequently it was necessary to drape scarves or sections of lace across the shoulders offers to cover the exposed décolleté. Brooches of this genre were used to pin the scarves together or fasten to the dress.
They were also used as decorative pins to affix a veil to a bonnet, so they are also known as bonnet or veil pins. By the late Georgian era (the Regency era), the wearing of a lace veil over a bonnet became very popular - the lace veil on the silk bonnet would protect a lady's complexion, or offer protection from unwanted public gaze.
Please take a look at my other original Victorian and Georgian era brooches -
http://www.etsy.com/shop/victoriansentiments?section_id=7179660
Product code: Georgian Hair Gold offers Brooch - Bonnet, Veil, Lace, Fichu Pin