Victorian Dove Bird Swallow Locket Pendant Etruscan Revival, Circa 1860

This is a magnificent Victorian - Belle Epoque Picture Locket Pendant with a stunning fully modeled three dimensional dove swallow bird on the front. The locket has gorgeous Etruscan Revival granulation adornment around the bird who carries a branch with leaves. The locket is gold filled. Birds have been popular as symbols in jewelry for a long time. Birds were traditionally seen as messengers between humanity and the gods, and their home in the sky - being so close to the heavens - was thought to bring them closer to the realms of the spirit. Doves have come to represent: peace, love, hope, faith, and devotion. The locket opens to reveal two picture compartments with their original inserts and glass covers. The picture locket dates to the Victorian to Belle Epoque period circa 1840-1890. Bird motif lockets are so in fashion today and this one is just stunning. The locket is in excellent condition. It opens and closes securely. The locket is 1 1/4 inches long (34mm) not including the bales. With the bales the locket is 2 inches (50mm) tall. It is 1 inch (26mm) wide.