ACCORDING TO ROMAN FABLE, the pansy was originally white but was colored purple when struck by one of Cupid’s arrows. (Purple pansies are also called violas, FYI.) Here, you can slide open the two halves of a viola locket that's enameled - so realistically! - with veins and shadows.
MATERIALS: sterling silver, enamel, new sterling silver chain
AGE: c. 1880
CONDITION: Very good - minor surface wear commensurate with age and use
SIZE: 1" length including the bale, 3/4" width, 18" chain