This gilded silver locket is decorated with a micro-mosaic that depicts a butterfly, created from tiny tiles known as tesserae. Its border is decorated with micro-mosaic motifs and a twisted wire pattern. The back holds a compartment closed off with a glass panel, which can be used to store a personal memento.
It was most likely bought as a souvenir during a 19th-century 'Grand Tour' through Italy. In the 18th and 19th centuries, well-to-do youngsters would travel through Europe as a way of informal education, and the wonders of ancient Italy were an essential part of this trip.
A lot of Italian jewellers became specialized in creating jewels that hinted at ancient art and culture, in this case by emulating mosaic tiles that could be found in the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The butterfly was also a popular motif used because it symbolized beauty, a combination of fragility and strength, and freedom. Importantly, the butterfly is also the symbol of Psyche, the lover and ultimately wife of Cupid.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 62 mm long; 42 x 34 mm excluding the jump ring.
Weight: 17.10 grams
Age: 19th Century, circa 1860s.
Material: The mounting is acid tested as being silver.
Condition: In antique condition with signs of wear, consistent with age. The micromosaic is still in great condition with no missing parts. Originally, the silver was gilded, although most of this gilding has now faded. The rim has several dents; this can be seen in the pictures.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.