Help Identifying Gold Miniature Portrait Frame Hallmarks from Austro-Hungarian Empire (c.1806–1815)

[jaume]

Hello,

I am looking for help identifying hallmarks on a gold frame-medallion with a miniature portrait, likely from 1806–1815, Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Marks I’ve identified:

FW monogram: possibly the artisan’s initials.

Letter A in a small rectangle: likely indicates a duty paid in Vienna.

Shield with vertical stripes, containing A·2: similar to examples in Karl Knies’ Hallmarking in Austria, plate 9. These are described as “gold shields for the main assay office, Imperial and Royal, in various finenesses and two sizes each.”

I would greatly appreciate any help with:

Narrowing the chronological range for these shield marks.

Identifying the artisan associated with the FW monogram or any other hallmarks on this piece.

Thank you very much again, for your expertise!

Jaume

[jaume]

Hello again,

I have now come across a reference table of Austrian hallmarks used from 1824 onwards. According to this source, the shield with vertical stripes and the mark **A·2** was in use between **1824 and 1866**. It indicated the gold fineness of **545/1000**, which corresponds to just under 14 carats.

This would mean that the hallmark is slightly later than the date suggested by the miniature portrait itself. The next step will be to see if we can identify a specific goldsmith corresponding to the **FW** monogram.

Many thanks once again for your generous help and expertise!

Jaume

programa ver fotos

[jaume]

Hello again,

I think I may have found a possible goldsmith for the FW monogram. I came across an Austrian silversmith (possibly also a goldsmith) named Franz Valnefer / Vallnöfer (1767–1858), whose hallmark matches the FW monogram on my miniature portrait frame.

I have seen several works attributed to him, including a candelabra from 1825 with matching marks, which makes this connection seem plausible. Of course, I am aware that other goldsmiths or silversmiths might have used the same initials.

I would love to hear the forum members’ thoughts or any additional insights on this.

Thank you very much!

Jaume

[jaume]

Correction: the silversmith (maybe also a goldsmith) is actually Walnefer / Wallnöfer, not Valnefer / Vallnöfer. Thanks!