Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Target Brooch
A charming Victorian jewel carrying both timeless design and the lingering whisper of a personal story.
Crafted in sterling silver, this antique target brooch dates to the Victorian era, when jewellery was often exchanged as a token of affection, remembrance, or friendship. Its classic concentric design, known today as a target brooch, centres the eye upon a single point, creating a wonderfully balanced and enduringly elegant piece.
While the term target brooch originally describes the circular "bullseye" design rather than an established Victorian symbol, it is difficult to resist the romantic notion that the wearer may once have been the target of another's affections. The inscription hidden on the reverse certainly invites such speculation.
Engraved verso is the simple dedication: "L to AE"
A gift from one person to another, preserved for well over a century. Were they sweethearts, dear friends, sisters, or family members? The identities behind the initials have long since faded into history, yet the sentiment remains beautifully tangible.
The reverse also bears a faint silver maker's mark, appearing to read Tan(?)ard Silver or a similar variation, now softened by time and wear. Although the mark is not sufficiently clear for a confident attribution, it adds another layer of character to this charming survivor from the nineteenth century.
Sharp and elegant pinned to a favourite coat, scarf, or lapel, this brooch is equally at home as part of a thoughtfully curated antique jewellery collection. Absolutely super pinned to the collar of a modern denim jacket.
Details
Mid-Victorian era target brooch
Sterling silver
Engraved verso: "L to AE"
Faint maker's mark present
Classic concentric target design
Secure brooch fittings - with replacement soldered hinge and c-clasp
A beautiful piece of sentimental Victorian jewellery
Victorian jewellery so often speaks of personal connection, and this brooch is no exception. Between its intriguing inscription and its symbolic target design, it invites us to imagine a cherished recipient who, at least for a moment in time, may truly have been the centre of someone's world.