rare turn of the century French silver & brass repousse mirrored slide locket

A rare turn-of-the-century French chatelaine compact crafted in richly detailed repoussé metalwork. Originally silvered, the exterior now shows a beautiful, time-softened wear, with the silver gently rubbed down over generations to reveal the warm golden brass beneath. This natural patina is highly prized among collectors — the kind of surface that only a century of handling can create.

Designed to be worn on a woman’s chatelaine chain, this small personal compact would have been an everyday accessory: decorative, functional, and a quiet expression of her taste. The tactile repoussé florals, scrolling acanthus, and central cartouche are still crisp and elegant, even as the underlying brass peeks through.

Inside, it opens to its original beveled mirror, softly aged but fully intact — a rare survival that adds both value and provenance.

Perfect for collectors of French antiques, stylists seeking heritage props, or anyone who loves pieces that carry the visible, authentic marks of time.

Key Features

• French, c. 1890–1910

• Crafted in silvered metal with repoussé ornamentation

• Silver layer naturally worn, revealing warm brass underneath

• Designed as a chatelaine compact

• Original interior beveled mirror

• Secure hinge & clasp

• Lovely, untouched antique patina

• Dimensions: 

total height to top of bale: 3.25”

mirror height: 2”