This watch fob was originally worn on a gentleman's watch chain and likely used to close off personal letters with three intaglios with images that had personal significance to him. Iron might seem like an unusual material to our modern eye, but it was a popular material for fobs in the 18th Century.
The fob has an ingenious mechanism which holds the seal of your choosing in place. By gently lifting the mechanism in the stem slightly, the seals can be turned around and will be fixed again after this is released.
The three intaglio seals depict the following:
- Cupid selecting one heart with the motto 'Un Me Suffit' (one is enough for me);
- A copulating hen and rooster, with the motto 'Gratis' (for free);
- And a portrait of the Roman emperor Vespasianus (9-79 AD), who was known for reforms in the Roman Empire that brought political stability.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 40 x 22 x 14 mm, excluding the jump ring.
Weight: 14.85 grams.
Age: Mid-18th century, circa 1750s.
Material: Iron.
Condition: In great antique condition with minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box and necklace are 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.