In the past 15 years, we've only ever had one other large, true Aesthetic Movement locket in all-gold - most often found in silver, sometimes with mixed-gold applied details, an all-gold example is a rarity and excellent collector's item.
It dates to c1890, is certainly English, and is constructed in solid 15K gold (inscribed with the sweetest '15ct' engraved mark to the rear, carefully tested to confirm), of a rich buttery colour with rose accents and contrasting green gold appliques.
The influence of Japanese art and irogane/shakudo metalwork is evident. The central plaque features an extremely fine scene of a stork in flight, passing a reed, exotic flower and bamboo. The theme continues with those fantastic, generously applied and sweeping bamboo plants above and below it, with their bowing stems and large expansive, sun-like green gold leaves.
The stork symbolises wisdom and longevity, and the bamboo, stability and prosperity.
Amazing and artful!
Slightly higher carat mercury gilding is used on the front half of the locket to great effect, creating a slightly bloomed finish. Additionally, the gold on the central panel is more rose gold beneath the thick yellow gilding, so the engraved pictures have a slightly contrasting rosy colour. So much detail, so much subtlety!
The interior is beautiful, with both original gold frames present, each fitted with a clear perspex cover. Clicks shut safely and securely.
MEASUREMENTS: Approx 2 1/16" total drop including the saddle bail, 1 1/4" side to side. 16.3g in weight.
CONDITION: Very good, wearable antique condition - please view all close-up photos. There are a few little areas of wear/pitting the outer layer of gilding on the edges of the front half as shown, rather difficult to see spot unless peering closely. No dings or dents, no losses to the lovely applied decorations apart from two very tiny pieces missing from the middle of two small bamboo leaves, again difficult to spot.
A few small areas of natural patination around the details remains, can be polished off if desired.
Any display forms/chains are used for photography purposes only.