Aksel Holmsen Norway Gilt Sterling Silver and Guilloche Enamel Brooch and Earrings Set Circa 1940s

Measurements: Brooch: 2.25"L x .75"W (5.72cm x 1.91cm)                                   

Earrings: 1"L x .4"W (2.54cm x 1.04cm) 

Markings: Norway Sterling 925S Aksel Holmsen Maker's Mark

Weight: 10.1g

Brooch is in excellent condition with very minor wear comparable to age - enamel is clean and bright with no damage of any kind. Very shiny and any imperfections in the photos are reflections. Included with purchase is a converter so it can be worn as a pendant if preferred. Earrings have some fading to the gilding on the back but the enamel is clean, fully intact, shiny and bright. The earrings are a hair shade lighter red than the brooch but I believe it's because they are thinner than the brooch. Clip backs and function as intended. They could easily and inexpensively be converted to post back earrings by a jeweler.  

Aksel Holmsen was a Norwegian jewellery maker. He trained  in filigree work with David  Andersen during 1889-92 . He went on to open his own silversmith workshop in 1904 in Oslo which became known for its modernist design  esthetic. His son Ivar began working at the company in 1942, eventually taking over the firm in 1950. They produced traditional filigree work, as well as enamel floral brooches in the Fifties and plain silver modernist abstract jewellery in the sixties. The firm used a crossed bench tool stamp before changing to the "A.H.S" stamp for Aksel Holmsen Salg. The company eventually closed in 1971.