Scantily catalogued as a Georgian/Victorian micro-mosaic plaque depicting a dove, a classic example of the pieces produced by Italian craftsmen and beloved by wealthy Britons on the Grand Tour was equally appreciated by bidders at Stroud Auctions (18% buyer’s premium).

Extracted from Antiques Trade Gazette | Terence Ryle

The 2in (5.5cm) diameter plaque had been brought home by a soldier who died of his wounds soon after the First World War.

It was found in an odds and ends box where it was kept by his widow.

In fine condition when it was found by her descendants, it was estimated at £300-500 at the June 12 Gloucestershire sale.

The plaque attracted phone bids from Italy and the US before selling online to a London buyer on thesaleroom.com at £6000.