French "I BRING HAPPINESS Luck" Porte Bonheur Lucky Charm Number 13 Antique Silver Plate Brass

ABOUT:

Romantic silver plated photo locket pendant with an image on one side of a bird (I think a swallow or dove) flying amongst swirling clouds carrying a banner with the French phrase "Je Porte Bonheur" which translates to "I bring happiness" / or good luck - a wonderful French antique lucky charm.

It also has a little number 13 hanging around the birds neck, between the bird and the banner. 13 was traditionally considered a lucky number in France prior to World War I, and was used in numerical form as a good luck symbol during the Victorian to Art Nouveau period.

Antique piece from France from the Belle Epoque / Art Nouveau period.

The brass frame pops open so you could add a clear plastic film on the back and insert a photo or flower facing out opposite the bird image to make it reversible. If worn with the French message facing out, the back is not noticeable but right now it is just a silver plated panel with some discoloration.

Whimsical and interesting piece!

Chain is not included.

HALLMARKS:
It has some makers marks on the bottom rim, initials and symbols but it is silver plate and brass.

MEASUREMENTS:

The piece measures almost an inch wide and 1.1 inch tall to the top of the loop.

IMPORTANT CONDITION NOTES:

Please note that all my pieces are pre-owned with some age to them so they are in estate condition. Original antique patina. The silver plate could likely be polished to brighten up if desired but most of my buyers prefer original patina. Some spots and deterioration to the metal. If desired as a locket, it does take some doing to pry the clip at the top to pop it open without breaking it. None of the metals are precious as it is mostly brass but still a fun piece of history. A few nicks and scratches but the front is very legible. Some discoloration, some stubborn tarnish and spotting from age to the back. Surface wear and scratches from use. Some scuffs and discoloration from age to the brass frame from age.

Please note that due to age, this is not a mint condition item.

Let me know of any questions and thanks for stopping by!

SOCIAL:
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