Antique Victorian (1937- 1901) Pinchbeck porcelain portrait brooch. This Victorian brooch is made from pinchbeck surrounding a printed portrait of a pretty lady. The brooch fastens with an open 'c' clasp.

Pinchbeck is a metal alloy consisting of brass, zinc and copper made by Christopher Pinchbeck in the 1720s. He was a London clockmaker and Pinchbeck was developed as an alternative to gold. The material was cheaper, lighter and did not tarnish and could be made into intricate designs. The brooch is in excellent vintage condition, measuring 5.5cm / 2.5" in length and 4cm / 1.7" in width.