Victorian 18 kt. Gold Pocket Watch Key/Pendant featuring Leda and the swan

£2,690.00

An exquisite Victorian pocket watch key pendant, crafted in 18kt yellow gold and finely carved coral, dating to circa 1880. This unique piece serves as both a functional key and an artistic jewel, combining mythological storytelling with refined craftsmanship.

The coral features neoclassical relief carvings on both sides:

  • Side one: A cherub depicted as a charioteer, standing confidently in a chariot drawn by two galloping horses.

  • Side two: A mythological scene of Leda confronted by Zeus in the guise of a swan, a subject rich with symbolism and widely represented in art from antiquity to the Renaissance.

The gold mount frames the coral plaques with elegance, creating a jewel that would have hung as both a practical accessory and an emblem of sophistication.

Dimensions

  • Size: 5.3 × 3.2 × 1 cm

  • Weight: 14.00 g

Specifications

  • Period: Victorian, circa 1880s

  • Origin: England

  • Material: 18kt yellow gold (X-ray tested)

  • Gemstone: Carved coral plaques with neoclassical motifs

Condition Report

Pre-owned with age-related wear. Minor dent to gold rim and a micro chip to the coral carving, otherwise in good condition overall with sharp detailing.

An exquisite Victorian pocket watch key pendant, crafted in 18kt yellow gold and finely carved coral, dating to circa 1880. This unique piece serves as both a functional key and an artistic jewel, combining mythological storytelling with refined craftsmanship.

The coral features neoclassical relief carvings on both sides:

  • Side one: A cherub depicted as a charioteer, standing confidently in a chariot drawn by two galloping horses.

  • Side two: A mythological scene of Leda confronted by Zeus in the guise of a swan, a subject rich with symbolism and widely represented in art from antiquity to the Renaissance.

The gold mount frames the coral plaques with elegance, creating a jewel that would have hung as both a practical accessory and an emblem of sophistication.

Dimensions

  • Size: 5.3 × 3.2 × 1 cm

  • Weight: 14.00 g

Specifications

  • Period: Victorian, circa 1880s

  • Origin: England

  • Material: 18kt yellow gold (X-ray tested)

  • Gemstone: Carved coral plaques with neoclassical motifs

Condition Report

Pre-owned with age-related wear. Minor dent to gold rim and a micro chip to the coral carving, otherwise in good condition overall with sharp detailing.