circa 1840s, most likely French.
This ornate 18K gold antique brooch is centered with a black onyx plaque depicting, a scene of a bird chasing a butterfly. The bird is superbly modeled in silver with a gold beak and eye. The body of the bird is densely set with old brilliant and rose cut diamonds of various sizes. The eye is set with a cabochon cut ruby. The butterfly is embellished with diamonds, rubies and emeralds. The onyx plaque is framed by chased gold vines with enameled leaves accented with pearls.
The brooch measures 60 x 41 mm (2 1/8 x 1 5/8 in.)
