This is the front of an electrotype replica of a silver gilt brooch known as the 'Lochbuy Brooch'. Made in the West Highlands around 1500, the original is in the British Museum. It belonged to the MacLaines of Lochbuy in Mull.
The electrotype is set with rock crystal and river pearls.
The Lords of the Isles encouraged music, poetry and the arts of sculpture, carving and jewellery making. Although we sometimes know who commissioned work, most of the artists' names have vanished.
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