Antique French Art Nouveau locket, made of gold-tone metal, with a central medallion decorated in relief with the profile of Joan of Arc, depicted with her characteristic headdress. The figure is surrounded by an openwork frame of plant ornamentation, scrolls, and small spherical elements. The reverse of the medallion features another profile of the historical figure. It incorporates a sliding cover opening system that allows access to the photo compartment, where it preserves the antique portrait of a girl or adolescent.

Joan of Arc was a figure especially represented in French medal and jewelry at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, as a symbol of patriotism, courage, and devotion. This locket combines that historical iconography with the plant lines of Art Nouveau and the sentimental function of portrait lockets. These small jewels allowed personal photographs to be preserved and carried as a keepsake of a family member or loved one.

• Style: Art Nouveau, Modernism
• Decoration/Motif: Joan of Arc in relief, openwork plant frame, and photographic portrait
• Period/Dating: Early 20th century, ca. 1900–1920
• Origin: France
• Tested: Not applicable
• Materials: Metal
• Hallmarks/Punches: None found
• Dimensions: 3 × 3.1 cm, not including the second ring
• Weight: 5.89 g

These items are not new; they show signs of wear and may have scratches and imperfections inherent to their age and use. Examine the photos carefully. We offer an accurate description; if you need to confirm a detail, write to us before purchasing.

It shows wear and patina on the metal. The interior photograph is very faded and retains little definition, as shown in the images.