Antique Australian 9ct Rose Gold ‘Kewpie’ Wishbone Brooch By Willis and Sons Circa 1912
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.
Laybys & Hold Policy
Do you have your eye on a fabulous piece but need some extra time to
pay? At Graisons, we offer suitable layby terms for pieces priced $400 AUD and above. Contact us for more details.
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For information regarding our Purchase Guide & Returns Policy, please click here
Shipping & Delivery
Free Complimentary Express Shipping: Australia & Select International Countries.
We are pleased to offer free complimentary express postage, fully insured with tracking and signature on delivery using Australia Post.
Orders are dispatched within one-two business days of purchase. Once complete, a tracking number will be forwarded to you via email notification.
We are currently shipping to the following international countries:
UK, USA, CANADA, SINGAPORE, NEW ZEALAND, HONG KONG.
PLEASE NOTE: Any duties imposed by countries for importing our items are the buyers responsibility. Please contact your local customs agency if you wish to discuss potential rates and fees.
Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery
We absolutely pride ourselves on sourcing the best quality pieces for our customers, with many of our items valued by our registered jeweller/gemologist.
Our collection consists of pieces that are of antique and vintage condition, which means that all our items are secondhand and used. Customers are not purchasing 'new', 'perfect' and 'unworn items', and as such, should expect wear and imperfection. Any condition issues are always extensively mentioned in the condition summary.
Please do not hesitate to ask questions prior to purchase. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that these descriptions and pictures are carefully viewed and any questions are asked prior to the transaction taking place.
Please refer to our guide, Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery for more details.
Your Purchase: What Is Included?
Your purchase will be lovingly packaged in our custom made, eco-friendly Graisons Fine Jewellery Jewel box tied with ribbon inside our custom made packaging/mailing box.
For added safety and security, all purchases are shipped inside an Australia Post medium sized mailing box.
If your item includes an independent valuation, the physical certificate will be included.
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