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- Antique Victorian Assyrian Revival Apkallu Gold Locket
Antique Victorian Assyrian Revival Apkallu Gold Locket
Antique Victorian Assyrian Revival Apkallu Gold Locket
Protection, Wisdom.
A striking, dimensional, and substantial Victorian locket rendered in rich 15k gold, this piece leans fully into the 19th century’s fascination with the ancient world. At its center, an apkallu—the Assyrian winged genie—stands in finely detailed relief, his feathered wings and ritual gesture crisply engraved against a softly burnished ground. These figures were believed to confer protection and wisdom; here, that symbolism is carried forward as protection for the wearer and for those whose images are held within.
This revival piece emerged in the wake of the mid-19th century excavations of the great Assyrian palaces at Nimrud and Nineveh—finds that captivated Victorian audiences and fueled a wave of design inspired by ancient Near Eastern art. Goldsmiths translated those monumental sculptural reliefs into intimate, wearable form. Here, the frame surrounding the apkallu takes the shape of a bold, architectural frieze—granulation and wirework with radiating segments imparting a sculptural presence and distinctly archaeological character.
Assyrian Revival jewels are encountered far less frequently than their Egyptian Revival counterparts—and when they do appear, they are most often in silver. The use of 15k gold here elevates this example, placing it among the rarer survivals of the style. The gold retains its original bloom, lending a softness and depth of color that only time can produce. On the reverse, an applied monogram adds another layer of history—evidence of a life once lived with this piece.
The locket opens and closes properly and retains both rims and covers.
Marvelous on a period gold chain or collar or even a wide ribbon. Wear it as a singular statement or layered into a story of collected pieces.
Chain shown is not included.
Marked 15 (for 15k) and maker’s mark “G & MC”
15k gold, with 10k and metal components to the insert frames; glass covers.
Dimensions and weight:
● 59.2 mm long (including the bail)
● 35.8 mm wide
● 11.5 mm deep
● 32 grams (total)/25.5 grams (without rims, covers, inserts)
Period: Victorian, circa 1870s
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. The satin and paper inserts found within the locket at the time of acquisition will be included.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
Protection, Wisdom.
A striking, dimensional, and substantial Victorian locket rendered in rich 15k gold, this piece leans fully into the 19th century’s fascination with the ancient world. At its center, an apkallu—the Assyrian winged genie—stands in finely detailed relief, his feathered wings and ritual gesture crisply engraved against a softly burnished ground. These figures were believed to confer protection and wisdom; here, that symbolism is carried forward as protection for the wearer and for those whose images are held within.
This revival piece emerged in the wake of the mid-19th century excavations of the great Assyrian palaces at Nimrud and Nineveh—finds that captivated Victorian audiences and fueled a wave of design inspired by ancient Near Eastern art. Goldsmiths translated those monumental sculptural reliefs into intimate, wearable form. Here, the frame surrounding the apkallu takes the shape of a bold, architectural frieze—granulation and wirework with radiating segments imparting a sculptural presence and distinctly archaeological character.
Assyrian Revival jewels are encountered far less frequently than their Egyptian Revival counterparts—and when they do appear, they are most often in silver. The use of 15k gold here elevates this example, placing it among the rarer survivals of the style. The gold retains its original bloom, lending a softness and depth of color that only time can produce. On the reverse, an applied monogram adds another layer of history—evidence of a life once lived with this piece.
The locket opens and closes properly and retains both rims and covers.
Marvelous on a period gold chain or collar or even a wide ribbon. Wear it as a singular statement or layered into a story of collected pieces.
Chain shown is not included.
Marked 15 (for 15k) and maker’s mark “G & MC”
15k gold, with 10k and metal components to the insert frames; glass covers.
Dimensions and weight:
● 59.2 mm long (including the bail)
● 35.8 mm wide
● 11.5 mm deep
● 32 grams (total)/25.5 grams (without rims, covers, inserts)
Period: Victorian, circa 1870s
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. The satin and paper inserts found within the locket at the time of acquisition will be included.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
