This remarkable ROTATING Victorian hairwork locket, dating to approximately 1860, is a superb example of 19th-century sentimental jewelry. Crafted in 9K gold, the locket encloses a finely preserved arrangement of woven and feathered human hair, meticulously styled into flowing plumes and sculptural curls against a pale ground.
Rotating interiors appear in higher-quality Victorian lockets and were intended to protect delicate contents while allowing discreet viewing. This feature also permitted the locket to be worn comfortably while keeping the memorial composition properly oriented against the body. The presence of this mechanism indicates intentional craftsmanship beyond purely decorative intent, reinforcing the locket’s role as a functional object of remembrance. The survival of both the hairwork and rotational mechanism in working order underscores the piece’s quality and careful preservation.
Hairwork jewelry occupied a uniquely intimate role in Victorian culture, serving as a tangible remembrance of a loved one—whether in life or mourning. The artistry required to produce such compositions was considerable, demanding patience, technical skill, and emotional intention. Each strand was deliberately placed, transforming personal relic into enduring form.
The locket spins to reveal its original glazed compartment, secured within an ornate gold mount. The reverse retains its original backing, indicating the piece has remained intact and undisturbed for generations. Its warm gold tone and sculptural surround frame the hairwork with dignity and restraint, allowing the interior composition to remain the focus.
More than adornment, this locket is a private archive of memory—created to be worn close to the heart, and preserved as a testament to enduring affection.
Purchased at auction, West Sussex UK.
Image 1 of 2
Image 2 of 2
