This agate, enamel and gemset cameo brooch carved with the profile of a classical maiden and signed verso for Georges Bissinger sold for £4200 at Mallams in Oxford.
The German-born gem engraver working in Paris during the second half of the 19th century won a number medals at international exhibitions. He produced gem carvings for several jewellers working in the Renaissance revival style, including Carlo Giuliano, John Brogden and Boucheron.
The brooch, from c.1870, was among the most eagerly contested lots at the Mallams (24% buyer’s premium) jewellery sale in Oxford on August 22 when it took £4200 (estimate £500-700).
