David Andersen Norway Sterling Silver & Guilloche Enamel Large Butterfly Brooch Circa 1940s

Measurements: 2.2"W x 1.2"H (5.59cm x 3.05cm)

Markings: David-Andersen Norway Sterling 925 S

Weight: 10.5g

One of largest in size from David Andersen, this gorgeous butterfly brooch looks like new old stock. Probably sitting in a jewelry box 70+ years, sadly never worn. The guilloche enamel is clean and bright with absolutely no damage or repairs. The gilding is crisp and bright and I only see a micro scratch or two. A real treat for the avid DA and vintage Norwegian jewelry collector. Included with purchase is a gilt silver converter so it can be worn as a pendant on a chain if preferred.

The company was founded in Christiania (now Oslo), Norway by David Andersen in 1876. Andersen (1843-1901) was a gold and silversmith with a keen sense of quality and the high standards of his workmanship brought early success to the firm. By 1888, Andersen was able to expand his workshop into a steam powered plant and a second retail location was opened in Oslo in 1892.
David Andersen died in 1901, his son, Arthur Andersen, took the reins of the firm at that time. Arthur instituted some important changes, he decided to hyphenate the family name to David-Andersen, and as chief designer, he introduced the use of enameling on the company's gold and silver jewelry as well as hollowware. The new line was so successful that enamelled jewelry has become nearly synonymous with the David-Andersen name. The firm has remained a family business and is now run by members of the fourth generation, Uni and Jon David-Andersen.