c1800 Georgian Sepia Miniature

An unusual Georgian-era sentimental navette-shaped brooch with the image of an ivy leaf and the French phrase "Je Ne Change Qu'en Mourant," which translates to "I remain steadfast until death." The words and image are inked in sepia on white porcelain and embellished with snippets of golden hair, particularly in the garland branches beneath the leaf. Though the use of hair in jewelry is often associated with mourning, it was commonly used for sentimental and romantic purposes as well. This brooch was likely a gift to a lover; a gesture of faithfulness and eternal commitment, complete with snippets of her golden hair. In a 9K rose gold case with a monogram engraved on the back. Dates to c1800.