Memento Pietra Dura Vermeil Grand Tour Pendant Napoleon III Period

This beautiful rectangular medallion is decorated with stone marquetry, Pietra Dura technique originating from the city of Florence.
The silver-gilt frame mount is decorated with scrollwork motifs centered on flowers in Etruscan style work.
The long bail is also decorated with ring applications in the Etruscan style.
On the back, a faceted glass compartment in a silver-gilt frame fits into the frame to hold a memento, photo or lock of hair of a loved one.

About the Grand Tour: A trip to Italy and France, often lasting a few months, was almost obligatory for young European aristocrats and wealthy citizens of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Considered an educational journey, this "Grand Tour" was devoted to the artistic treasures and ancient buildings of both countries, knowledge of which was considered evidence of good education and distinguished taste. The craftsmen and artists of the cities visited produced objects and jewelry intended for these art lovers who brought them back as souvenirs and as gifts to those who had not had the chance to make this journey.

Excellent condition, no missing inlays, old patina of the gilding without wear.
On the fixed ring, old swan hallmarks for imported silver objects.
19th century period, Italy, circa 1860.

Note: Tiny chip on the facet at the bottom of the glass of the back compartment.
Very fine crack on the black stone plate at the bottom of the marquetry.
Dimensions 5cm x 3.5cm
Weight 16g