Austro-Hungarian Enamel Egg Vinaigrette Blue Chalcedony Pink Opal Pearls Necklace - Brezza Dolce IV Necklace
Delicate powder blue hand-linked chalcedony chain is periodically intercepted with stations of creamy pearls flanking gold vermeil Peruvian pink opal connectors to create a gorgeous backdrop for a most charming antique hand-painted enameled egg scent locket. The one-of-a-kind pendant is actually a beautiful Victorian (c. 1860) gilt silver vinaigrette, used in its heyday to ward off the foul odors of the streets and/or as a remedy for faintness when filled with scented vinegar wool cotton. The charming little egg shaped vinaigrette with hand-painted pastoral scenes are watched over by two cherubs as part of the design. Although there appear to be numerous small markings, which may include the maker’s mark along the interior rim, they are indistinguishable. Most enamel vinaigrettes from this period were crafted in Austria and would have had an “A” as one of the maker’s marks Given the age of the vinaigrette, it is in fairly good condition - the latch shuts very tightly / no cracks in the still delicately painted enamel - just numerous small “flea bites”. Although there is no decorative grille in place, the vinaigrette could still be used to hold fragranced cotton. This charming one-of-a-kind necklace is certain to be a conversation piece. Necklace measures 24.5 inches long / 2.75 inch drop. Vinaigrette measures 1.13 inches long X .60 inches wide.