This diminutive pendant depicts a flower basket, with several enamel flower buds peeking out of the basket. The rim is decorated with the enameled phrase 'L'Amour les a Cueillit' which translates to 'Love has Picked Them'. The bottom of the basket is set with a carnelian intaglio, depicting two burning hearts.
Tiny pendants that were designed to hang from a watch chain, and which would often have a personal connotation or a practical function, were known as breloques (French for trinkets). They were a very popular asset of a Georgian gentleman's wardrobe. This particularly charming example was clearly given as a little tangible love token, maybe to celebrate a betrothal or wedding anniversary.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 11 x 11 x 9 mm excluding the handle. 18 mm long including the handle.
Weight: 1.48 grams.
Age: Late 18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1770s.
Material: The pendant does not carry any hallmarks but has been acid tested as being 18k gold.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age. There are no losses to the enamel, and only a few small nicks along the setting of the carnelian intaglio.
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