A rare Victorian mourning locket in vulcanite, a vulcanized rubber-based composition widely used in mourning jewelry in the mid-19th century. This exquisite piece stands out for the exceptional quality of the floral carvings adorning the frame: flowers and leaves are meticulously intertwined, creating a decoration that combines grace and solemnity.
The convex, opaque front cover conceals a surprising interior: finely hand-engraved, it is a detail designed to remain private, in keeping with the intimacy of mourning jewelry. The contrast between the sober exterior and the hidden richness within perfectly expresses the symbolic and sentimental language of the Victorian era.
A rare and moving object, combining craftsmanship, historical value and evocative power.
Historical notes
Victorian locket necklaces, often associated with mourning, were designed to hold small relics: a lock of hair, a miniature portrait, or a message. Vulcanite became popular after the death of Prince Albert in 1861, when Queen Victoria imposed a long period of mourning, influencing the fashion and customs of the time.
Resistant yet easily workable, vulcanite allowed for the creation of austere yet elegant jewels, often carved with botanical motifs and allegorical symbols, such as those present in this specimen.
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Characteristic
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Detail
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Material
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Vulcanite
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Era
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Victorian (19th century)
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Dimensions
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6.5 cm by 4.2 cm
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Technique
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Hand sculpture and engraving
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Condition
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Excellent, slight signs of age
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The product cannot be reordered as it is a unique piece.
Each of our items comes with a descriptive and photographic certificate of authenticity.
If there are signs of aging, they are to be considered part of its history.
Any small defects, if found, are always reported in our descriptions.
Express courier shipping is entirely at our expense throughout Italy, including the islands.
