But without hesitancy those two words apply here. For in every aspect of this jewel, those words barely capture the magnificence and artistry rendered in 18k gold and sapphires.
This is a rare etui compact, suspended by a finger ring by two chains. Can you imagine conversing at a soiree while gently gesturing with this swaying and catching everyone's eye and envy.
An elongated rectangle with arched top and bottom, consummately hand engraving reveals to landscapes with cherubs rivaling the finest oil painting.
The front, studded with natural blue sapphires, depicts two ionic columns, and between, majestic trees hover adjacent to two towers with buildings below. A winding path leads toward the foreground.
Winged cherubs or angels face outward and hold hands while grasping a bough or branch of leaves. Their petite wings are evident, curly locks adorn their heads; even their toes are outlined. Rose blooms create a sumptuous border, culminating in two swirls and leaves.
While similar, the reverse shows a variant on this theme. Two cherubs again hold hands and clasp a garland. They stand on a pedestal surrounded by roses. Above them, two ionic columns frame soaring trees that loom over a lake. Continuing all around the edge, that similar riot of roses culminates with spirals as well.
Yet each, being hand engraved, is different and entirely breathtaking. Bordering these tableaus, a flora border of leaves and berries is punctuated by "X" shaped ribbons.
A cabochon sapphire function as the button to open the locket. Once again, almost every gold surface is engraved with patterns. The right side holds a mirror, now silvered.
The left two compartments open with sapphire-studded buttons. Both reveal inner compartments, likely that once held powder, scent, or other cosmetics. The initials "NBL"? are emblazoned on the top compartment.
Once the chambers are open, you see that the gold interior is polished in a myriad of circles adding to its refinement. Weighty at over 54 grams, this feels almost as astounding as it looks.
