Description :

Antique Guilloché Brass Photo Locket with Interior Retaining Ring

This is an antique two-sided brass photo locket, crafted with a circular double-hinged case. The outer surface displays a guilloché engine-turned pattern featuring alternating wavy and crosshatched stripes in a vertical configuration. Both exterior halves exhibit signs of oxidation and surface corrosion, particularly on one side where green and reddish patina is prominent.

Inside, the locket reveals a compartment fitted with a rotating C-shaped retaining ring, which holds a textured inner metal backing disc. The disc is intricately patterned with repetitive six-pointed star-like motifs interspersed with small circular impressions—this patterning is machine-etched and likely decorative rather than symbolic. The mechanism suggests this locket was intended to house a photograph or small memento, protected behind glass or celluloid, which is now missing.

The hinge and clasp components appear fully functional, though tarnished and aged. The locket includes an attached suspension loop for wearing on a chain or attaching to a chatelaine or pocket watch chain. No manufacturer hallmarks, signatures, or inscriptions are visible on any surface.

Material Details:

• Composition: Brass (body and loop)
• Decorative Technique: Guilloché (engine turning)
• Condition: Heavy patination, tarnish, and corrosion to the exterior; interior retaining mechanism intact but shows age and wear; no glass or photo remains.

Lockets of this type were popular during the Victorian and Edwardian eras for carrying miniature portraits or sentimental keepsakes. The detailed guilloché pattern and the mechanical photo retention system suggest this piece likely dates from the late 19th to early 20th century. Its design and wear are consistent with mass-produced sentimental jewelry from that period.

No visible maker’s marks or hallmarks present.

Measurements:

1 1/2" around 

2 1/8L with clasp