William III badge c. 1690
Gold, enamel, silver and rock crystal | 10.4 x 6.9 x 2.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 52282
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Obverse: openwork roundel composed of concentric circles of rose-cut rock crystals in petal-shaped settings around a larger central stone. Surmounted by a crown set with rock crystals.
Reverse: oval enamel portrait miniature of William III (1650-1702). Surrounded by a frame of petal-shaped plaques of white enamel with black foliate scrollwork and pink flowers. The reverse of the crown is similarly enamelled.
Locket pendants of this type containing miniatures were popular diplomatic gifts. The likeness of the King is derived from Sir Godfrey Kneller’s full-length State Portrait of 1690, after which innumerable replicas were made.
Text adapted from Ancient and Modern Gems and Jewels in the Collection of Her Majesty The Queen, London, 2008Provenance
Acquired by Queen Mary in 1916.
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Gold, enamel, silver and rock crystal
Measurements
10.4 x 6.9 x 2.0 cm (whole object)
10.4 x 6.7 cm (frame, external)
2.8 x 2.5 cm (sight)
Category
Subject(s)
Other number(s)