Two gold and ivory mourning choker clasps Probably England...

Two gold and ivory mourning choker clasps

Probably England and France, mid 18th century and later

Both of oval form and painted en grisaille, the first, with female figure leaning against plinth inscribed, "CH," and topped with covered urn, the reverse with inscription, "Mrs. Cath.n Harvey/ Obt. XXII Nov.r MDCCLXIX/ AETA: XI. ANN:"; the second, depicting woman leaning against covered and swagged urn bearing the initials, "IB," trumpeting cherub holding crown flies overhead beneath inscription, "SES VERTUS FONT MA GLOIRE"; together with a circular, hairwork mourning pendant depicting a scythe and oval tablet with the initials, "EJ," leaning against swagged plinth topped with hourglass all beneath weeping willow trees, the reverse set with hair and the initials, "EJ, JKJ, RJ," all seemingly unmarked.

L: 2 in. (largest, overall)

PROVENANCE:

The Collection of Irvin and Anita Schorsch.
Christie's New York, Important American Furniture, Silver, Folk Art & Dec. Arts, June 21, 1995, Sale 8208, Lot 191.