I’ve been fascinated by Lover’s Eye jewelry ever since I saw a collection at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum many years ago. And what better time to do a post on this unique short lived Georgian jewelry craze (1790-1820) than now when we are masked and can only see our loved ones, actually everyone’s, eyes! Perhaps a revival is in order, we all can use a bit of romance in our lives!
The story has a romantic beginning and takes us to the court of the future King George IV of England, then the Prince of Wales, and his secret lover, Maria Fitzherbert.
Since Mrs. Fitzherbert was divorced it would prove difficult for them to be married. After many proposals, George sent her a locket containing a portrait of his eye, along with the note: “P.S. I send you a parcel … and I send you at the same time an Eye, if you have not totally forgot the whole countenance. I think the likeness will strike you.”
She replied to the sent image with a portrait of her own eye. They were married in a secret ceremony.
Most of the miniatures are painted in watercolor on ivory or gouache on card, the miniatures were set in pins, rings, and lockets for women and various containers such as snuff boxes or stick pins for men. Usually a decorative border of burnished or engraved gold, gems or pearls surround the portrait and often a hair compartment was included to hold a loved one’s hair. Obviously very intimate and meant for the recipient “eyes” only, they were small and to be concealed.
Here are some of my favorite finds….you can go to my Pinterest Board to see the many images I have collected pin.it/qnUPiGH
It is said that if the miniature portrait was surrounded in pearls the subject was deceased.
A couple of books…..
All photos, unless otherwise noted, found on Pinterest photo credit and origins unknown.
THe fashion Photographer Norman Parkinson collected these EYE pins and wore them on his label. Here’s looking at you!
Thanks for the info Lawrie….I’ll see if I can find an image!!!! Here’s looking back at you!
Beautiful! Always loved miniatures and almost price prohibited. However the lovers eye is quite unusual and really catches ones attention. Marcia
They are expensive and difficult to find.
Very, very interesting post. I was not aware of Lover’s Eye Jewelry and I thought I knew EVERYTHING. I too, love the V& A and spend a lot of time there whenever I am in London. Thanks for this education. Vicki
I learn something new every day…..and I find this story fascinating but not a lot of written info but huge amounts of photos….I find them charming@! So pleased you enjoyed the post!
Absolutely fascinating, whimsical and fun read as always by you Nena, I never knew a thing about these Lover’s Eyes – what beautiful pieces to look at and collect these are ❤️ So happy your writer’s block is over and we can enjoy your beautiful and informative writing!
Thank you dear Sally…a fun one to do…writer’s block gone for at least a day….
Fascinating! Weird but appropriate for Covid times when eyes are beautiful and prominent 👁
Glad you enjoyed it. I hope you are safe and well. 🥂🥰