Georgian Miniature Heart & Bow Locket

This dainty 18th century heart & bow mourning locket features a hand-painted sepia and macerated hair miniature of a funeral urn framed by bare branches. The halo frame of meticulously set hand-cut foiled rubies around the compartment, and the marcastites dotting the bow, give the piece beautiful depth and a touch of sparkling color. It's a rare example of Georgian memorial jewelry in exquisite condition. The symbolism of a crowned heart (in this case a bow) refers to loyalty and eternal devotion. Details: Approximately 1 1/8” north to south including the bail, and 5/8” east to west across the compartment. The locket is not meant to open, the compartment is sealed. The miniature on a natural material, likely ivory, the metalwork XRF tests to 14k gold and sterling silver. Condition: In excellent condition with a rich patina and a few subtle marks on the back.  History: Sepia paintings such as this were popular as memorial pieces; the paint was made of dissolved or macerated hair. Th