Pendant Made of Onyx & Pearl in Gold, Around 1870

The mourning rituals of the 19th century in Europe were subject to strict etiquette. An essential component was mourning attire, which was often worn for many months, often for a whole year. During this time, ladies from the upper classes in particular were not allowed to do without representative jewellery. This gave rise to a form of jewellery that was subordinate to the requirements of mourning and at the same time met the need for adornment. Materials of restrained colors such as jet and onyx became particularly important. This pendant is a fine example of this development. A deep black onyx has been cut into an oval shield, the calm surface of which is enlivened by a deliberately placed accent. A pearl sits in the center, set in a flower-shaped gold mount. The back is also carefully designed. An agate is set into the onyx, held by a decorative element in reddish gold. The shield-like shape and the design indicate that it was created around 1870. This fine piece of jewellery came to us from Hamburg and still retains the quiet dignity of its original meaning.

Estimate:£496.8

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