A rare and historically significant 18kt yellow gold locket, inset with a preserved lock of hair believed to be that of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. The circular locket is guilloché-engraved and decorated with a crowned “N” monogram on one side and a laurel wreath motif on the other—both referencing Napoleonic imperial iconography.
Inside, an engraved inscription reads:
“21st January 1821. This is the hair of Napoleon Bonaparte taken on St. Helena 5th May 1821.”
This important relic is accompanied by provenance including period press coverage and auction documentation. The piece was acquired at a London auction in 1989 by collector Malcolm Webber, with articles from The Times, The Daily Telegraph, and The Daily Mirror documenting its sale. A unique fusion of history, craftsmanship, and personal relic, representing a rare opportunity to own a tangible link to one of history’s most iconic figures.
Dimensions:
Diameter: 30 mm
Depth: 2 mm
Weight: 18 grams
Specifications:
Material: 18kt yellow gold
Decoration: Guilloché-engraved surfaces with crowned “N” monogram and laurel wreath motif
Inscription: “21st January 1821. This is the hair of Napoleon Bonaparte taken on St. Helena 5th May 1821.”
Provenance: From the Malcolm Webber collection; accompanied by vintage press clippings (The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Mirror) and auction documentation
Condition Report:
Excellent antique condition with minor surface wear consistent with age. Engravings remain sharp, locket mechanism functions securely, and the hairwork compartment is intact.
A rare and historically significant 18kt yellow gold locket, inset with a preserved lock of hair believed to be that of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. The circular locket is guilloché-engraved and decorated with a crowned “N” monogram on one side and a laurel wreath motif on the other—both referencing Napoleonic imperial iconography.
Inside, an engraved inscription reads:
“21st January 1821. This is the hair of Napoleon Bonaparte taken on St. Helena 5th May 1821.”
This important relic is accompanied by provenance including period press coverage and auction documentation. The piece was acquired at a London auction in 1989 by collector Malcolm Webber, with articles from The Times, The Daily Telegraph, and The Daily Mirror documenting its sale. A unique fusion of history, craftsmanship, and personal relic, representing a rare opportunity to own a tangible link to one of history’s most iconic figures.
Dimensions:
Diameter: 30 mm
Depth: 2 mm
Weight: 18 grams
Specifications:
Material: 18kt yellow gold
Decoration: Guilloché-engraved surfaces with crowned “N” monogram and laurel wreath motif
Inscription: “21st January 1821. This is the hair of Napoleon Bonaparte taken on St. Helena 5th May 1821.”
Provenance: From the Malcolm Webber collection; accompanied by vintage press clippings (The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Mirror) and auction documentation
Condition Report:
Excellent antique condition with minor surface wear consistent with age. Engravings remain sharp, locket mechanism functions securely, and the hairwork compartment is intact.
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