Masterpiece Ponte Vecchio, Florence Pietra Dura Locket, Pendant - Antique Photo, Original Box

Jewelry : Antique : Micromosaic

 

There is truly no more magical city or more important city for art in the world, perhaps, than Florence, Italy. It is the cradle of the Renaissance, the home of the Medici and all the magnificent arts that came forth from that era. It is a city of masters and geniuses, and of grand romance and firey historical significance (bonfire of the vanities, Savonarola, etc., etc., etc.,). Artists such as Giotto; Fra Angelica; Masacchio; Michelangelo; Da Vinci; Donatello; Botticelli; Brunelleschi and Giberti - only a few of the many! And it is a city of artisans whose work in marble and other materials rivals any in the world. So it is with much pleasure we present this magnificent large pietra dura pendant/locket, still in its original box, and complete with cover glass and a very old tintype (c.1860) set into the back. The Etruscan influence is rich in this one. The ornamentation as appealing and as majestic as is the marble shading of the floral bouquet worked in mosaic on its surface. A lavalier style, it can work over your smaller set of pearls, or a very large gold chain. A splendid piece, even if worn on a black or gold ribbon. Superb quality, condition, value!

Very good to excellent. The setting is pinchbeck, or a gold mimic. We do not think it is karat gold, but it is certainly brilliant and beautiful as if it were. Might possibly be a low k. gold, but we see no marks, did not test it. We prefer to assume it is not gold and to price it that way. Back removes in case you wish to replace the old photo with a newer one of your own. Box and pendant are both in fine condition, are original to one another. Elegant c. 1840-60s Grand Tour souvenir, no doubt.

Item ID: 706pdpndt