Vintage Damascene Bird Pendant Necklace

Description
A 1950s–1960s damascene medallion showing a long-tailed bird in flight among flowers and reeds, worked in two tones of gold against a matte black ground. The domed center is held in a scalloped frame of fine wire filigree, with a matching filigree bail. Bird and blossom scenes are among the classic motifs of Toledo damascene, where gold foil is hammered into darkened steel. A generous pendant with real presence and quiet detail.

Materials
Gold-tone metal filigree, damascene inlay on blackened metal

Details

• Era: 1950s–1960s
• Style / design notes: Domed round medallion with bird and floral scene, scalloped filigree surround; chain is a later replacement, not original to the pendant
• Function: Spring ring clasp closure
• Color: Gold-tone, black
• Condition: Good vintage condition, gold-tone wear to the filigree frame and bail with silver-tone showing through in places
• Measurement: Chain 18", pendant 2" including bail

Collected by Mineral and Matter