Lot 1164 , Indian Mutiny Interest pinchbeck mourning brooch

Indian Mutiny interest - an oval pinchbeck mourning brooch, with chased surround inset decorative hairpiece 'tied' with seed pearls on a white enamel ground, inscribed verso 'In Memory of F. E. Witte R.N. of H.M.S. Shannon who died at Lucknow the 27th March, 1858, aged 30 years.' L 2.5in
Estimate £150-250

Note: Frederick Edward White was born in Pimlico, London on 10 August 1826 and joined the Navy in 1843 as a Boy 2nd Class. By the end of 1856 he was aboard HMS Shannon, under Captain William Peel, as Yeoman of the Store Room. White was fatally wounded at the storming of the Begum's Palace at Lucknow on 11 March 1858 and died 16 days later. His Indian Mutiny medal (incorrectly named to 'Fredk. C. Wittie') was sent to his widow on 20 May 1861 and eventually sold at auction (Dix Noonan Webb, Lot 993, 13 September 2012).

There is a poosibility that a one of the long pieces of wirework may have come loose behind the glass, otherwise the overall condition is good.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £240