The lovely auburn hair belonged to Cornelia Ray Hamilton, who died in 1867 at the age of thirty-seven. Her life dates are engraved on the underside of the brooch.
Purchase, Susan and Jon Rotenstreich Gift, 2000 (2000.556).
(Gilt lettering inside the cover of the original maroon leather case)
Gold & pearl breastpin
with C. Hamilton's hair -
given to me by Mother
January 1868.
(paper label adhered to the underside of the box)
оформление:
1868. New York.
Plaited hair is enclosed under highly polished crystal set in gold and mounted with white pearls alternating with black enameled epaulettes.
The overall effect is one of boldness and elegance.