SALE Nouveau Sterling Silver Chatelaine Heart Box with Cherub!

Jewelry : Antique : Fine : Art Nouveau

 

This large and fabulous bauble opens to hold your memento! Chatelaines were popular from the 1870s until World War Two. Chatelaines were worn at the waist, and usually consisted of a pin or hook which slipped over one's belt. Several chains were suspended from it, each holding a container which housed a useful item, such as scissors, thread and needles, etc. They were practical to have because women's clothing did not usually have pockets for holding items at hand. Chatelaines may have been practical, but as with many antique items, beauty and fine craftsmanship took precedence!

This Heart shaped box is embossed with an elaborate Nouveau floral design. But what sets it apart is the precious cherub hovering over it. As you can see in the pictures, it is hallmarked in several places, including the outside, typical of English pieces. It bears the mark for Chester, as well as the date letter for 1903. The Chester office closed in 1962. It weighs a substantial 29 grams and measures 2 1/4" in length by 1 1/4" in width, and 7/8" thick! My pictures are close up and large which is nice for detail- but the piece is much nicer in person! It could have held pills, or even sewing needles. The chain is not antique and is included for fun. As pictured, it makes a great belt! It also makes a striking long pendant. The chain is 32 1/2" long. It matches well, but is not silver. I'm not sure what it is, it never tarnishes. But the heart box is sterling.

Item ID: J 215