We often think of lockets as sentimental, perhaps romantic, rooted in blushy Victorian tradition. Not this locket. This two-sided Chinese cloisonné creation is fierce as hell, featuring a snarling dragon in shades of white, yellow, red, and black. Inside, the two ovals could certainly hold photos of loved ones, but are large and deep enough to hold a lock of hair secretly snipped from the head of your sworn enemy.
It's difficult to date this piece. The art of cloisonné is ancient, as is dragon imagery; the general size, weight, hinge construction, and wear of the metal makes us think that it's from the 1940s, but that's just a guess. We do know that it's quite old, definitely vintage if not antique. We also believe that the base metal is brass, and the inside of the locket has been made shiny with the deals addition of gold plating.
A few notes: The dragons on this locket have five toes each, which are symbolic of the imperial family. So, yeah, fancy. Next: In the Chinese calendar, the Year of the Dragon isn't happening again until 2024. But if you're thinking about gifting this locket to a lucky gal or guy born in the Year of the Dragon, look for 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, or 2012.
Condition is very good, with just a bit of wear due to aging. There is a brass fitting at the top, plus a jump ring, so you can attach your choice of chain, rope, or ribbon.
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$120
Product code: Chinese deals Cloisonné Locket with Dragon