Decorative Antique 19th Century Silver Gilt & Enamel Viking Ship Brooch, Signed Gustav Gaudernack

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Decorative Miniature 19th Century Silver Gilt & Enamel Viking Ship Brooch, Signed Gustav Gaudernack
A once-in-a-lifetime acquisition for the serious … Read more Decorative Miniature 19th Century Silver Gilt & Enamel Viking Ship Brooch, Signed Gustav Gaudernack
A once-in-a-lifetime acquisition for the serious collector of fine jewellery and Scandinavian art history.
This rare original silver-gilt and enamel Viking ship pendant brooch is the work of Gustav Gaudernack (1865–1914), Norway’s most celebrated Art Nouveau master goldsmith. Exquisitely detailed, distinctly hallmarked, and initial-signed on the reverse, this piece exemplifies the extraordinary craftsmanship and design language that made Gaudernack internationally renowned.
About the Artist
Born in Bohemia and trained in Vienna in glassmaking and enamelling, Gaudernack moved to Kristiania (now Oslo) in 1891. From 1892 to 1910, he was the leading designer at David-Andersen, where he pioneered masterpieces in plique-à-jour enamel—many of which now reside in museum collections.
In 1910, he established his own workshop, producing jewellery of unmatched artistry until his untimely death in 1914. Today, Gaudernack’s work is considered among the most collectible of Nordic Art Nouveau jewellery, with examples seldom appearing on the international market.
About the Piece
Design: Viking ship pendant brooch, richly enamelled, with fine gilt highlights.
Dimensions: 2 cm wide × 1 cm high × 0.7 cm deep.
Material: Handmade in 925 Norwegian silver, gilt and enamel.
Markings: Signed/initial-stamped by Gustav Gaudernack.
Date: Circa late 19th century, 1890s.
Presentation: Later fitted box included.
Unlike Gaudernack’s more commonly seen flowing Art Nouveau jewels, this brooch draws inspiration from Nordic mythology and archaeological revival, making it an especially compelling piece for collectors interested in myth, history, and symbolism. The craftsmanship remains extraordinary even in miniature, with enamel work and detail that reveal the hand of a true master.

Rare subject matter (Viking ship, mythology-inspired).
Authenticated signature of Gustav Gaudernack.
Historic provenance and museum-worthy quality.
Exceptional craftsmanship from the golden age of Norwegian Art Nouveau jewellery.
This is more than jewellery—it is a portable sculpture, a historic artefact, and an investment-level treasure from one of Scandinavia’s greatest jewellers. See less