Antique Tie Pin, Late 19th Century, In 18-carat Gold, With A Stylized Fly, Rubies And Diamonds

A charming late 19th-century 18-karat gold tie pin, adorned with a delicate central motif of a stylized fly, set with a ruby and old-cut diamonds. The pin's slightly domed shield-shaped head features a refined and distinctive design, characteristic of fine accessories from the late 19th century. At its center, a small stylized fly, approximately 1 cm long, is set with a ruby of approximately 0.05 carats (about 2 mm in diameter) and old-cut diamonds totaling an estimated 0.10 carats. The fly motif, so popular in late 19th-century decorative arts, can be interpreted as a poetic evocation of the ephemeral and the living. At the crossroads of naturalism, the spirit of the cabinet of curiosities, and the fin-de-siècle taste for stylized insects, it enters into dialogue with a shield-like form with heraldic resonance, suggesting distinction, symbolic protection, and a fascination with the natural world. This encounter lends the pin a singular, delicate, evocative, and discreetly noble charm. The whole piece captivates with its finesse, understated elegance, and authenticity. This antique pin is both a beautiful collector's item and a distinctive accessory, a testament to the decorative refinement of the late 19th century. Dimensions: Total length with shank: 7 cm; Decorated shield-shaped section: approximately 1.2 cm wide by 1.5 cm long; Fly motif: approximately 1 cm long. Characteristics: Period: late 19th century; Metal: 18-karat gold; Weight: 2.30 g; Central stone: ruby of approximately 0.05 ct; Setting: old-cut diamonds, approximately 1000 g. 0.10 ct in total