Princess Louise brooch is star of sale

A 19th-century commemorative brooch commissioned by Queen Victoria to mark the engagement of Princess Louise to John Campbell was one of the highlights of a recent sale in Birmingham.

On October 3, 1870, while on a walk near Balmoral, John Campbell proposed to Princess Louise by the scenic Dhu Loch. Known for her beauty and elegance, Louise was a favoured daughter of Queen Victoria, often considered one of the most beautiful princesses in Europe.

Their romantic engagement by the loch became a treasured memory for those close to the royal couple. Queen Victoria even commissioned gifts to those close to Louise. One such gift was the Victorian gold granite and green enamel wreath brooch which bears the inscription: “DHU-LOCH 3rd October 1870 FROM VR” (Victoria Regina).

With an initial estimate of £300–400, five bidders and 14 bids later, the piece sold for a total of £3,640.00.

Lindsay Campbell, Jewellery Department Manager at Fellows, commented: “I was delighted to have such an interesting brooch come through auction, especially one with a royal link. It is no wonder this piece attracted such attention – We are thrilled to see it do so well at auction.”