Antique Australian 9ct Rose Gold ‘Kewpie’ Wishbone Brooch By Willis and Sons Circa 1912
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Charming and whimsical antique Australian brooch fearing a Kewpie inside a Wishbone circa 1915 and manufactured by Willis and Sons and hallmarked as such.
Conceived by Rosie O’Neill in 1909, the idea initially conceptualised as a cartoon intended for use in a comic strip, Rosie described the characters as a ‘sort of a little round fairy whose one idea is to teach people t be merry and kind at the same time”. The name ‘Kewpie’ is derived from ‘Cupid’ the Roman god of erotic love.
The Wishbone of course has always been associated with good luck and hope for the future, so this little rare piece of Australian history just oozes symbolism!
Crafted from rosy 9ct gold the detail on the Kewpie is charming… little ear buds, tiny wings to her neck, little top knot, side glancing googly eyes, fingers and toes, and she’s fully formed o the back as well and has the sweetest toosh ! .. this one has it all!
In lovely condition for its approximate 107 years and full hallmarked for Willis and Sons, this special piece is a collectors dream.
STONES
None
MEASUREMENTS
3cm x 2.6cm
WEIGHT
1.89 Grams
MARKS
9ct To base of feet
‘Unicorn’ for Willis and Sons
9
‘W’ for Willis and Sons symbol after 1904
CONDITION
Very very good antique condition. No dents or dings to Wishbone or Kewpie. Original C clasp and pin to verso, no repairs or additions.
Please note boxes and chains are for display only unless otherwise stated.
Conceived by Rosie O’Neill in 1909, the idea initially conceptualised as a cartoon intended for use in a comic strip, Rosie described the characters as a ‘sort of a little round fairy whose one idea is to teach people t be merry and kind at the same time”. The name ‘Kewpie’ is derived from ‘Cupid’ the Roman god of erotic love.
The Wishbone of course has always been associated with good luck and hope for the future, so this little rare piece of Australian history just oozes symbolism!
Crafted from rosy 9ct gold the detail on the Kewpie is charming… little ear buds, tiny wings to her neck, little top knot, side glancing googly eyes, fingers and toes, and she’s fully formed o the back as well and has the sweetest toosh ! .. this one has it all!
In lovely condition for its approximate 107 years and full hallmarked for Willis and Sons, this special piece is a collectors dream.
STONES
None
MEASUREMENTS
3cm x 2.6cm
WEIGHT
1.89 Grams
MARKS
9ct To base of feet
‘Unicorn’ for Willis and Sons
9
‘W’ for Willis and Sons symbol after 1904
CONDITION
Very very good antique condition. No dents or dings to Wishbone or Kewpie. Original C clasp and pin to verso, no repairs or additions.
Please note boxes and chains are for display only unless otherwise stated.
