Antique Victorian Wood Gutta Percha Buckle With Chain MOURNING BROOCH PIN

Description

Antique Victorian intricately constructed wood and gutta percha buckle motif mourning brooch. Unsigned. Mid to late 1800s. Buckle sections appear to be wood, cut by hand with etched floral and wheat pattern (long life symbol). Large oval links gutta percha chain suspended from eye pins on back side of buckle. Black glass head pins hold buckle permanently shut, cannot be parted, a symbol of eternal love. "C" clasp pin back; anchored in wood. There may be old repair to wood surface next to "C' clasp, as surface looks slightly concave from rest of backing. If so, do not put pressure on either end of buckle when handling pin, as the wood becomes brittle over time and pressure could break ends away from main buckle. Hold pin by thick round center area when handling. Delicate and fragile. Would have been beautiful worn at front neck of lady's mourning jacket.
3 1/4" x 1 3/8" x 1/2"