Adolf Hårdh, Panorama of Stockholm (1840-49)
Lover’s eye, or miniature portraits of just an eye, are some of the most captivating pieces of jewelry from the Georgian period that are extant. Eyes as symbols have been used for centuries upon centuries and the eye itself as an image is enthralling, mesmerizing and thought provoking. Said to have begun with the Prince of Wales in the late 18th century, for his secret lover, Mrs. Fitzherbert. They exchanged eye miniature portraits rather than full miniatures so they both would have “anonymous” love tokens. The bearers were the only ones who could identify the sitter.
This charming custom took hold and the aristocracy and wealthy began to exchange these types of tokens of love and affection. They fashion only lasted from the late 1790’s though to about 1825 or a bit later.
I think memento mori art is awesome rather than creepy so naturally I’m in love with these eye portraits. (They weren’t necessarily portraits of the dead, but this example is a mourning ring.)
