Antique Georgian Victorian pendant locket fairy gold enamel cherub pink (7566)

Antique pendant locket. Gold and enamel. Quality of enamel is French, style is Louis XVI. Exact origin and date unknown - 18th to 2nd half 19th century, probably originating in France or possibly Great Britain.
 

Measurements:

Weight is 15.1 grams. A little over 1 1/2 inches (4cm) long, excluding loops. 

Description :

Oval pendant locket, very full shape. The back is set with a gold framed removable section for displaying a portrait or a lock of hair. Surrounded by the same salmon pink / orange pink enamel that continues to form the ground of the front of the pendant. Exquisite, romantic depicting of a fairy or winged cherub/nymph hoding a basket of flowers and surrounded by a ring of flowers and foliage. 
Butterfly wings. Curly hair with blue ribbon is in the style of the 18th century or Georgian era (Empire / period of Napoleon Bonaparte and Josephine in France). A coral beaded necklace around her neck; chubby knees and arms. She peers at a white and yellow daisy in her right hand, while under her arm is a basket, filled with beautiful blossoms. A loose wreath of flowers and foliage around her. 
The color of the enamel is exquisite. The enamelled depiction very pretty. 
A pair of gold loops for hanging the pendant from a chain - long and swinging or short, just below the nape of the neck.
Quality is the very best. 
Back can be quite easily removed. The oval locket-lid is glass/crystal lined with silk and vellum. 
The larger loop is a later addition and was clearly placed there to facilitate a wide gold chain or ribbon.

Marks and Metal:

No marks found. Inside the white enamel has remnant of script, but mainly worn away or illegible. 
Gold was professionally electronically tested as 17-18k. 
     

Condition:

Good with no wear.  Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.   

THE STORY:

This subject matter and style were popular during the reign of King Louis XVI in France and then again during the 2nd Empire, from the 1860-80's. 

A romantic fairy enamel on gold pendant locket is a captivating piece of jewelry that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with whimsical charm. This pendant locket is crafted with intricate details and designed to evoke the enchanting world of fairy tales, drawing inspiration from nature, mythology, and romance.

The fairy motif typically graces the front of the locket, depicted in soft, ethereal colors. The fairy, often portrayed with delicate wings and a graceful pose, embodies the spirit of magic and love. The use of enamel adds a vibrant, lustrous finish to the design, giving it a rich depth and texture. The enamel work is skillfully applied by hand, with layers of translucent or opaque colors to create a dreamy, almost surreal effect.

The gold setting adds a touch of luxury and warmth to the piece. 

As a pendant locket, it is not only a work of art but also a functional treasure. The locket has space where one can place a personal memento, such as a photo of a loved one, a special note, or a small keepsake. This adds a layer of sentimentality, turning the piece into something deeply personal and meaningful.

This type of jewelry is ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of fairy tales, the allure of fantasy, and the elegance of fine craftsmanship. Whether given as a gift to a loved one or cherished as a personal heirloom, a romantic fairy enamel on gold pendant locket is a symbol of timeless beauty, love, and enchantment.

NOTE:

gold chain in pictures is not included with this item.