O F Hjortdahl Sterling+BLACK & GOLD Enamel Butterfly Pin50s Norway BroochRARE

O F Hjortdahl Sterling+BLACK & GOLD Enamel Butterfly Pin50s Norway BroochRARE. Dramatic and striking, in an unusual color combo of black and gold enamel, this vintage sterling butterfly is simply breathtaking.

You sure don't see many of these butterflies made in this stunning color combination. Nicer than it appears in my terrible photos! The golden elements are butterfly (or bat) shaped and centered with a 5-petal flower flanked by two 6-petal blossoms that echo the signature of this maker, Olaf F Hjortdahl, whose butterflies are not found nearly as often as those by other Norwegian makers. The enameling is incredibly effective: the contrasting shiny black and glistening gold really "Pops" so the butterfly is not just eye catching but absolutely mesmerizing. The brooch measures just over 1-1/2" wide by about 3/4" tall and has the old style simple C-clasp.

The sterling was lightly gold-plated (vermeil) which is most harmonious with the black and gold color combo. It is signed on the back "925S" below a flower that is the mark of O F Hjortdahl of Oslo.

Hjortdahl opened his workshop in 1911 and died in 1954 but his mark was used until 1970. I believe this butterfly is from the 1950s.

There is a tiny surface flake in the second compartment of the body (after the elongated one) that is shallow and hard to see except upon close examination and magnification so does not at all detract. If you look closely, you may be able to make it out in some of the enlarged photos, where hopefully you can tell it is of no consequence. And apart from that, the brooch is in Very Good / Excellent vintage condition, with just light surface scratches, dirt and tarnish due to age. The golden elements in the black enamel are perfectly clear; again please forgive the terrible photos. Several mid-century Scandinavian artists excelled in enamel work and butterflies were the ideal subject to show off their skills and artistry.

This is a fine specimen for your collection! Managing to be at the same time both tailored and feminine as well as casual and dressy, this versatile pin is striking and wearable in addition to being collectible. The sensational colors are smart and versatile and will go with everything; night or day, at work or play. Perfect for lovers of butterflies, Scandinavian silver or enamel, it would also make a terrific gift, although I doubt you will want to part with it, and it will flutter out of here in a gift box - just in case!

This is a Rare and Beautiful old Norwegian sterling and enamel butterfly brooch by O F Hjortdahl in regal Colors of Black and Gold. Please see our other listings for more great vintage jewelry, including Scandinavian. Both methods include gift box.

International buyers aware of the rules and expenses of importing into their country are welcome. WE LOVE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS! If you have a complaint, please let us know. It is our highest ambition to deserve 5 Stars. We thank you for your custom! Powered by SixBit's eCommerce Solution. The item "O F Hjortdahl Sterling+BLACK & GOLD Enamel Butterfly Pin50s Norway BroochRARE" is in sale since Thursday, March 05, 2015.

This item is in the category "Jewelry & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewelry\Vintage Ethnic/Regional/Tribal\Scandinavian". The seller is "momandpopcybershop" and is located in Houston, Texas. This item can be shipped worldwide.

Country/Region of Manufacture: Norway