Brooch 1895 - 1905

This exquisite brooch was created by Marcus and Co. around 1900, a period of intense fascination with ancient Egypt. The piece is a testament to the cultural phenomenon known as "Egyptomania," which swept through Europe and America following archaeological discoveries and increased access to Egyptian artifacts. The brooch is made with gold, opal, enamel, and glass. Its design incorporates iconic Egyptian motifs like scarabs, winged deities, and stylized figures, reflecting a romanticized and often exoticized view of ancient Egyptian culture. Marcus and Co., as a high-end jewelry firm, catered to a clientele eager to display their worldly sophistication and taste for the exotic. By appropriating and reinterpreting ancient Egyptian imagery, the brooch speaks to the politics of cultural representation and the social conditions that enable the production and consumption of such luxury items. Further research into the firm's clientele, design catalogs, and the historical context of Egyptomania would provide a deeper understanding of the brooch's significance.