Art Deco Virgin Mary Pendant

A splendid and unusual early 20th-century French religious medal; crafted in 18K gold and dating to around 1930, during the height of the Art Deco period. The piece takes the form of a stylised bell-shaped plaque, a characteristic silhouette of the era, and is inset with an iridescent mother-of-pearl ground displaying subtle greens, lilacs, and soft purples.

The obverse presents a finely hand-engraved profile of the Virgin Mary, her features rendered with great softness and sensitivity; the texture of the drapery and the modelling of the face demonstrate the engraver’s considerable skill. She is shown holding a symbolic lily—likely intended as a Madonna lily, traditionally associated with purity and the Virgin.

A small monogram in the lower left corner, apparently AC, marks the personal signature of the engraver; such signed work is highly desirable and reflects pride in craftsmanship. The reverse is enclosed in a clean 18K gold frame, the edges with stepped Art Deco lines.

Hallmarked with the French eagle’s head for 18K gold, and a maker’s mark showing L & C flanking a pair of cherries.

Excellent condition with a lovely, even patina.

Measurements: 21 × 16 mm

Material: 18K gold with mother-of-pearl ground

Marks: French eagle head; maker’s mark L & C with cherries

Date: c.1930

Origin: France