A wonderfully unusual antique Victorian keepsake pendant dating to around 1880, crafted in 15ct gold and modelled as a richly textured oyster shell. The surface is worked with overlapping, irregular ridges and fine engraved detail, giving the small pendant an impressively sculptural and naturalistic appearance.
Turn the pendant over and the reverse reveals a circular removable glazed compartment, designed to hold a tiny photograph, lock of hair or other personal keepsake. Set within the shell form, the little round compartment is particularly evocative of a pearl held inside an oyster, giving the design a charming additional layer of meaning without detracting from its practical Victorian keepsake function.
Presented in very good antique condition with age-related wear and patina consistent with its age. The shell detail remains beautifully defined and the original removable 8mm glazed insert is still present.
