She is ready to step out of her world and into yours...so vital, realistic, and lifelike, look closely to perceive her delicate intake of breath, almost.

On par with a great master, this enamel hand-painted miniature portrait rivals any hanging on a museum wall. Perhaps it is the rendering of her flesh tones or the modeling of her face and neck that places this far above the norm.

It may be her upswept hair with the shading and demarcation of each curl and lock that is defined with softness and precision.

Her roseate lips, sable eye, or hair ornament dotted with rose cut diamonds lends a three-dimensional quality to the whole all in 18k yellow gold.

Often this type of brooch portrayed women in dress of a historical theme. Here, glassy blue foiled enamel trims what could be armor or an elaborate costume.

Similar to a cameo habille, the surface is inset with diamonds.

Is she a goddess? A shield maiden or heroine lost to time?

Note: Most antique brooches of this quality and type sell for $4500 upward.