Charming pendant dating from the second half of the 19th century, made in the romantic spirit of sentimental jewelry from the Second Empire period.
This oval locket is made of genuine tortoiseshell, finely polished, and adorned on the front with a delicate floral decoration made using the piqué technique. This refined decorative method consisted of inlaying very fine metal threads and decorative elements into heated tortoiseshell, forming elegant patterns.
The decoration subtly combines:
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fine silver threads,
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gilded brass elements,
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engraved mother-of-pearl petals with iridescent reflections.
The ensemble forms a delicate and luminous stylized floral motif, characteristic of tortoiseshell jewelry produced in France in the second half of the 19th century.
The pendant opens to reveal a double keepsake compartment, once intended to hold a miniature photograph or a lock of hair. The interior is lined with a deep purple backing, which enhances the intimate and sentimental character of this antique jewel.
In the 19th century, these lockets were often worn close to the heart on a ribbon or chain, preserving the memory of a loved one.
Features
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Period: Second Empire
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Dating: circa 1860 – 1880
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Probable origin: France
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Material: tortoiseshell
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Decoration: silver piqué, gilded brass, and mother-of-pearl
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Shape: domed oval
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Interior: purple paper
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Function: photo pendant / keepsake locket
Dimensions: height without bail: 4.5 cm, height with bail 5.5 cm, width 3.5 cm, weight 11 g.
Condition
Good antique condition.
To note: some fine longitudinal streaks in the tortoiseshell, the beginning of a micro-fissure in the bail and a small, barely visible lack of mother-of-pearl in the small leaves on the front right. Light signs of time and small marks of use on the surface.
These discreet marks bear witness to the history of this antique jewel and contribute to its charm.
A memory jewel
Photo pendants were very popular in the 19th century. They allowed people to keep close to them the image or memory of a loved one, transforming the jewel into an intimate and emotionally charged object.
With its delicate decoration and beautiful patina, this locket is a refined testament to 19th-century sentimental jewelry.
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