Antique Mother of Pearl Shell Scent Flask Necklace, Silver Tone Wirework Chatelaine Pendant, Victorian Curiosity
Description
A wonderfully unusual antique pendant believed to have been made as a decorative scent or perfume flask.
The substantial domed body is constructed from sections of luminous natural mother-of-pearl shell, framed with hand-worked silver-tone wire scrolls. A circular hinged fitting opens to reveal a small central aperture, suggesting that the piece originally held scent, perfume or another small substance. Its exact original purpose has not been conclusively identified.
The flask hangs from a long, aged silver-tone chain with a simple hook fastening. Beautifully tactile and full of character, it would make an exceptional statement necklace, display piece or addition to a collection of antique vanity accessories and curiosities.
Features and Details
Believed to date from the late 19th or early 20th century
Natural mother-of-pearl shell construction
Large oval, domed flask or container
Decorative silver-tone wire scrollwork around the edge
Circular hinged lid with central aperture
Long Figaro-style metal chain
Simple wire hook fastening
No visible maker’s mark or metal hallmark
Precise original use and country of origin are unknown
Sold as a collectable item rather than a functional perfume container (unlikely to contain a liqiuid)
Materials have not been professionally tested
Measurements
Shell vask length: 6 cm
Shell Flask width: 7cm
Maximum depth: 4 cm
Chain length: 60 cm
Central aperture diameter: 2 cm
Condition
Antique condition with considerable age-related character. There are visible joins between the individual shell sections, along with surface scratches, natural irregularities, yellowing and discolouration. Some areas show cracking, small edge chips, old adhesive or repair residue and wear around the seams.
The metalwork and chain have tarnishing, oxidation, surface wear and some distortion consistent with age. The circular fitting opens and closes, although it has not been tested for an airtight seal and the piece should not be used to hold liquids.
Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description. The wear and historic repairs have been reflected in the price.
