Museum Quality 18th Cent. 18K Gold "Croix Jeannette" - Large Regional Pectoral Cross, Paris Revolution Period with Historical Hallmarks

From my own collection:

🌟 Summary
An extraordinary piece of French history and regional craftsmanship. This spectacular "Grande Croix Jeannette" (Pectoral Cross) dates precisely to the French Revolution period (1789-1792). Crafted in Paris, it features a monumental presence with a surprisingly feather-light weight, showcasing the peak of 18th-century or embouti (hollow repoussé gold) technique. Beautifully preserved with its authentic 18th-century tax hallmarks and a 19th-century census mark.
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🔍 Historical Significance & Hallmarks (Expertly Identified)

This piece bears a rare and fascinating total of 4 distinct hallmarks stamped on the top plaque, telling a two-part historical story spanning from the Ancien Régime to the 19th century:
1. The Charge Mark (Top Left): The letter "A" under a stylized crown/crest. This is the official tax hallmark of the Paris General Registry under the lease of Farmer-General Jean-Baptiste Calandrin, used strictly between 1789 and 1792. It marks the exact years of the French Revolution.
2. The Discharge Mark (Top Right): The cursive letter "M". This specific mark was used by the Paris tax office during the Late Ancien Régime to certify that final taxes were paid on small/menu gold items upon completion.
3. The Recensus / Warranty Mark (Bottom): Features a faint Eagle’s Head (Tête d'Aigle). Introduced in France in 1838 to guarantee 18K gold.
o Historical Context: During the 19th century, the French government ordered mandatory censuses for older gold items. This ancient 18th-century family heirloom was brought to a assay office post-1838 to be legally registered and stamped with the modern Eagle's head without damaging the piece.
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🎨 Design & Craftsmanship

• Bicolor Gold: The cross masterfully combines two tones of Yellow gold a highly sought-after aesthetic typical of the late Louis XVI and Directoire eras. The contrasting alloys highlight the finely chiseled central floral medallion and the ornate terminal motifs.
• The "Jeannette" Style: A monumental regional cross featuring faceted hollow arms and beautifully detailed decorative tips. Historically given to young women during important life milestones or worn during major regional processions.
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📏 Technical Specifications

• Country of Origin: France (Paris Assay Office)
• Period: Late 18th Century (French Revolution era, 1789-1792)
• Material: 18K Solid Bicolor Yellow Gold– Verified by the Tête d'Aigle hallmark.
• Dimensions: 7.50 cm x 5.5 cm (approx. 3 x 2.1 in.) — Note: Height measured excluding the top suspension loop (bélière).
• Weight: 3.53 grams.
• Condition: Excellent antique condition given its age. Beautiful original patina. As a genuine piece of hollow gold work (or creux/embouti), it is incredibly light and must be handled with the care deserved by a 230+ year-old treasure.

### 🌹 The Symbolism of the Rose & Regional Context (Normandy / Brittany)
While the "Croix Jeannette" structure was standardized in Paris, its center decorations were meticulously tailored to specific provincial tastes. The beautifully chiseled central **rose** on this cross directly connects it to the historical markets of **Normandy and Brittany** during the late 18th century.

Unlike Alpine or Savoyard regions that preferred a dove or smooth hearts, the wealthy agricultural provinces of Western France favored the blooming rose as a sacred symbol of youth, purity, and renewal. To make the flower come alive, the Parisian artisan crafted it in a contrasting **rose gold**, creating a stunning dimensional effect against the bright yellow gold of the faceted arms. Purchased at major regional fairs from traveling merchants, this cross was a woman's most sacred lifelong treasure, proudly worn on a black velvet ribbon during Sunday service, weddings, and traditional Breton pardons.

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