Among the many historically relevant jewels on display at the Museu do Tesouro Real in Lisbon, Portugal, there are a few masterpieces by the House of Castellani, the iconic Italian manufacturer founded in 1814 by Fortunato Pio Castellani (1794 – 1865) on the ground floor of the Palazzo Raggi in the Via del Corso, Rome.
One of the most interesting (and set with gemstones) is this ‘M’ Brooch, modelled on a 14th century brooch depicting the Annunciation, incorporating enamelled figures held in New College Oxford known as the ‘Founder’s Jewel’, in yellow gold, emeralds, rubies, sapphires and pearls, dated 1862.
It was a gift from the people of the city of Naples to Maria Pia of Savoy (1847-1911) on the occasion of her marriage to King Louis I of Portugal.
This piece was eventually sold, like so many others, at the Portuguese crown jewels auction in 1912, following the execution of the pledge that had been given to the banker Burnay as a guarantee of payment of the large sums contracted by the queen consort, known for her spending, especially in jewellery.
Photo © Luisa Oliveira / Museums and Monuments of Portugal – Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
Guest articles by Rui Galopim de Carvalho:
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About the author:
Rui Galopim de Carvalho is a renowned independent Gem Education Consultant, author, luxury industry training expert and popular international lecturer on gemmology and on the history of gem materials. During his 30 year experience as a gemmologist, Rui has studied important collections in both public and private museums, notably the Portuguese Crown Jewels.
Founder of the popular Home Gemmology webinar series launched during the COVID-19 lockdown, Rui has a long history as a gemmology communicator, notably on social media where he is a popular figure.
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