Man’s Best Friend! These characterful and most unusual pair of cufflinks from the late 1800s combine two complementary antique elements into one distinctive conversation piece. One side features a finely detailed hand-painted and enamelled portrait of a dog (likely a type of terrier)  rendered in soft naturalistic tones with expressive eyes and a delicately shaded collar on sterling silver. The miniature portrait reflects the Victorian fascination with beloved pets and the era’s appreciation for sentimental jewellery. The reverse side presents an engraved oval panel in silver-plated metal, centred with a small turquoise cabochon. The decorative motif shows flowing foliate engraving typical of late 19th century design, with the bright blue turquoise providing an attractive contrast to the softly aged metal surface. It is likely these cufflinks were created by joining components from two separate Victorian pairs — a practice not uncommon in period jewellery, often undertaken to preserve beautiful elements when originals became damaged or incomplete. The result is unique antique jewellery with history combining sentimental portrait miniature art with classic Victorian ornamentation that can be worn two ways. Perfect for collectors of animal-themed jewellery, lovers of Victorian curiosities, or those seeking an individual finishing touch with genuine antique character.
AGE: 
1880 - 1900
 
MATERIALS: 
Sterling Silver, Enamel, Turquoise, Silver-plated metal 
 
CONDITION: 
Very good — surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE: 
Height: 1.75 cm 
Width: 1.5 cm 
 
WEIGHT: 
6.88 grams 
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying extra attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Each jewelry piece is carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant velvet or leatherette gift presentation box.