A richly ornamented French watch fob, crafted from gold- and silver-plated brass. The main body is assembled from coiled, interwoven links, finished with a fine snakeskin-like texture and oxidised to contrast with a repeating arrangement of polished gold-plated cross- and diamond-shaped appliqués. Elegant curling terminals connect the body to a gold-plated toggle chain for attachment to a pocket watch, while a silver-plated medallion pendant is suspended below.
The medallion depicts the haloed Saint Barbara holding her tower and palm branch; the reverse bears the inscriptions “Ignis Patrona” and “CCXXXV”, referring to her traditional martyrdom in the year 235, alongside a dramatic scene recalling the lightning and fire that struck her father following her execution. A remarkable Victorian devotional accessory, combining rich mixed-metal ornament with the protective symbolism of the patron saint of fire, lightning, artillerymen, and miners.
The fob is about 13,2 cm long and 1,3 cm wide. While originally Intended to be suspended from a pocket watch, it can easily be used as a stylish keychain or attached to your car keys!
It's in perfect antique condition. No major dents or scratches. Fully cleaned and ready to wear!
A richly ornamented French watch fob, crafted from gold- and silver-plated brass. The main body is assembled from coiled, interwoven links, finished with a fine snakeskin-like texture and oxidised to contrast with a repeating arrangement of polished gold-plated cross- and diamond-shaped appliqués. Elegant curling terminals connect the body to a gold-plated toggle chain for attachment to a pocket watch, while a silver-plated medallion pendant is suspended below.
The medallion depicts the haloed Saint Barbara holding her tower and palm branch; the reverse bears the inscriptions “Ignis Patrona” and “CCXXXV”, referring to her traditional martyrdom in the year 235, alongside a dramatic scene recalling the lightning and fire that struck her father following her execution. A remarkable Victorian devotional accessory, combining rich mixed-metal ornament with the protective symbolism of the patron saint of fire, lightning, artillerymen, and miners.
The fob is about 13,2 cm long and 1,3 cm wide. While originally Intended to be suspended from a pocket watch, it can easily be used as a stylish keychain or attached to your car keys!
It's in perfect antique condition. No major dents or scratches. Fully cleaned and ready to wear!
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