Antique Silver Armorial Seal Fob Pendant | Probably 18th–Early 19th Century | Lozenge Arms & Rococo Decoration
£175.00
Once used to leave a personal impression in sealing wax, this small silver seal brings the elegance of the letter-writing age into a piece that can be worn and treasured today.
Measuring approximately 2.2cm high, it has a gently shaped baluster handle above a stepped oval base. An integral suspension loop completes its sculptural silhouette, allowing it to be worn as a pendant.
The oval silver face is engraved in intaglio with an armorial design displayed on a lozenge. Its upper section appears to form a chief indented, bearing three small bird motifs, possibly martlets—the stylised footless birds found in heraldry. Below, a field of ermine spots creates a finely patterned contrast.
A shell-shaped ornament crowns the decorative surround, with sweeping C-scrolls and foliate details framing the lozenge. These elements lend the engraving a Rococo character associated with 18th-century decorative design.
In British heraldic tradition, lozenges were commonly used to display women’s arms, suggesting a possible connection to a female owner. The particular arms and original owner have not been identified.
The silver retains a naturally darkened patina, with soft highlights across the raised surfaces and deeper tones within the engraving. Fine scratches and surface wear add texture and character, reflecting its age and use.
A distinctive miniature object, combining the practical history of a personal wax seal with the sculptural appeal of an antique pendant.
Details
▫️ Material: Silver; fineness undetermined
▫️ Marks: No clearly identifiable silver hallmarks observed
▫️ Weight: Approximately 5.33g
▫️ Height: Approximately 2.2cm
▫️ Base dimensions: Approximately 1.4 × 1.2cm
▫️ Decoration: Lozenge-shaped arms, three bird motifs, ermine spots, shell and C-scroll surround
▫️ Estimated date: Probably 18th to early 19th century, based on form and decoration
▫️ Condition: Natural tarnish, patina and surface wear consistent with age; please examine the original photographs for details
The dating and interpretation of the heraldic motifs are provisional. The specific family attribution remains unconfirmed.
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