A gorgeously rendered sepia mourning jewel, circa 1790, depicting a scene inspired by the hugely popular novel of the time, “The Sorrows of Young Werther,” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774. In the work, a young man, unrequited in his love for Charlotte, commits suicide, and is buried under a linden tree. The novel was a a cultural sensation, inspiring “Werther Fever” — with young men dressing in the blue jacket and yellow waistcoat favored by the protagonist and fans buying Werther porcelain, prints, fans, jewelry, and even perfume. Napoleon Bonaparte counted a copy of Werther in his campaign library,. This same scene of “Charlotte at the Tomb of Werther” is shown in a contemporary print, from the 1780s, in the collection of the British Museum.

The delicately painted scene of this mourning piece is preserved under a wonderfully deep and dimensional dome of glass. This jewel is larger than most of this kind, and so tactile in the hand. Wear this as a brooch or as a pendant.

A rare, tangible connection to a pop cultural phenomenon almost 250 years old.

Black cord shown not included.

Unmarked.

14k gold, wafer, glass.

Dimensions and weight:

●       49 mm long

● 29 mm wide

● 10 mm deep

●       11.2 grams

Period: Georgian

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. The topmost loop is a new addition.

*US sales only on this item.