rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket

rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket

$150.00
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rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
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  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
  • rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket
rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket

rare 19th century French carved mother-of-pearl cameo neoclassical chased brass photo locket

$150.00
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Description

Please note: chain not included 

A poetic heirloom from the French Belle Époque, this antique locket features a hand-carved mother-of-pearl cameo mounted on a beautifully chased brass case, dating to c. 1880–1900. The cameo depicts a flowing neoclassical figure, sculpted in soft relief and catching the light with an iridescent glow unique to natural mother-of-pearl.

The oval locket body is engraved with delicate botanical motifs and opens to reveal space for a tiny photograph or keepsake. Lightweight and deeply romantic, it embodies the sentimentality and artistry of late 19th-century French jewelry. The interior has a small glass frame door that opens to add a small picture or tiny memento. 

A rare example of a true carved cameo (not molded or printed), this piece was likely created in a Parisian or Dieppe workshop and sold as a keepsake to travelers during the Belle Époque.

Perfect worn alone or layered, it offers both a touch of history and quiet luxury — a timeless treasure to cherish for years to come.

Details: 

• France, c. 1880–1900

• Materials: Carved mother-of-pearl cameo; chased brass locket

• dimensions: approx 1.25” high (to top of bale) 

Condition:

Excellent antique condition overall, exterior has only slight signs of wear commensurate with age. The interior glass photo door sometimes catches slightly when opening, a common characteristic in 19th-century pieces. 

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