c1880 golden chatelaine with crucifix & 4 accessories

Ornate and extremely large, this 19th century chatelaine measures 13″ long and includes four tools and a crucifix. The elaborate upper panel is hinged and features romanticized. scenic “Oriental” figure with birds on the smaller plates that descend to the double-sided crucifix at the bottom.The back features both a waist hook and a loop to allow the chatelaine to worn as a pendant. It tests as 10 karat gold but is undoubtedly heavy gold plate rather than solid. No maker’s marks are visible. The finish is bright and shiny.

The crucifix is about 1-1/2″ high with natural shell behind the figure; the reverse is incised ROMA and “Terra Delle Catacombe” with floral decorations.

The beautiful scissors case (3-3/4″ long) is a very old style as is the thimble case (1-1/8″ high). Both are original to the piece and have matching decoration and test as 10k gold.

The “aide memoir” or memo book/ notepad is about 2″ long with 3 sheets of celluloid to write on. It is gilded brass (much of the gilding has worn off) with elaborate repouseé floral and scrollwork decoration. While very attractive, it’s not a good color match to the other pieces and is definitely a later addition. No maker’s mark.

The round compact or pill holder is 1-7/8″ across and features a detailed Art Nouveau woman with flowing hair on the lid, surrounded by tiny turquoise-colored glass cabochons (many are missing). It slides open easily but does not close securely, although the latch appears to be intact. The finish is a good match to the other pieces but has rubbed in spots along the edge on the back. No marks.

In exceptionally nice condition with only very minor expected wear. A signature will be required at delivery and insurance is included in the price.