Victorian Mourning Miniature Earrings

Poignant antique Victorian mourning earrings circa 1860 in 14k yellow gold featuring twin sepia and macerated hair paintings of a gothic initial "B" embraced by the overhanging branches of a willow tree, with two tiny cypress trees to the right of the letter. Painted on mother of pearl that has a beautiful blue to pink shimmer in the light, the images are covered with beveled crystal and bordered by a skillfully enameled greek key design accented by an acanthus leaf motif north and south, then finished with a graceful gold ball drop.

In the symbolism of mourning, the weeping willow holds an eponymous meaning representative of the grief felt by loved ones left behind. Since ancient Rome, the cypress tree has been used as a symbol of respect for the underworld and the realm of the dead. It's also considered a symbol of hope, as it grows straight and true, pointing upward to heaven.

Borrowing the key motif from classical themes made especially popular during Napoleon's reign, the black enameled border is anchored by another ancient mourning symbol: the acanthus leaf. In this context it refers to both the heavenly garden of life after death, as well as the earthly cemetery. 

Details: Being of a puffed construction, they're lightweight and comfortable to wear. Measuring approximately 1" long from top of the pendant to the bottom of the ball drop, with the curved ear wire adding another 5/16" for a total length of just over 1 1/2". Approximately 5/8" wide. Tested to 14k, although they may be 15k if of English origin.

Condition: The fronts are in excellent condition with no apparent wear to the crystal or the enamel, and a few slight specks of dust under the crystal. Repair has been made to the ear wires at some point in their history and the backs of the pendants do have a few shallow dings, not visible when worn. There is a slight patina and oxidization to the gold.