Antique Victorian 18ct Gold & Mother of Pearl Mourning Locket Lyre Brooch

This captivating antique brooch is a one-of-a kind. The carved black lipped mother of pearl is fashioned into a graceful lyre motif with patterned 18ct gold sheet wrapped around the lower and upper section. The eye draws towards the colourful hand painted floral decoration under the glass, which over the 150+ years has slightly peeled. A gold hinged frame surrounding glass can be opened by a miniscule lever which precious keepsakes can be stored, or in the day, perhaps a lock of hair. The miniature work of art looks to have been worn as a pendant at some stage with a hole placed at the top, all that would be needing is a jump ring to slide through.