Art Nouveau, French 18ct Gold, Madonna (Virgin Mary) 'Plique a jour' Enamel Religious Pendant

This is a wonderful, and difficult to find vintage religious pendant.  Crafted from 18ct Gold, it features the Madonna, with a border of pretty flowers, all on a 'Plique a Jour' blue enamel background.

On its back is a monogram engraving of the letters, FAP and the date 14-12-1947.  There is an illegible mark on the bale, which i strongly believe is the french eagle mark for 18ct Gold.   Although the date on the pendant is 1947, it is likely that this pendant was made between 1910 and 1930, when this type of design was enjoying a revival in France.

“Plique-à-jour” technique translates loosely as  "letting in daylight" and it looks very similar to the stained glass effect one sees in churches.  It is a very difficult enameling technique where glass like enamel is applied in cells, similar to cloisonné but has no backing.   After first being discovered in the 15th century by Benvenuto Cellini, plique-à-jour became popular again in France in the Art Nouveau period.

This fabulous pendant measures 1.9cm x 1.9cm and weighs 2.28g.   It remains in beautiful condition, with its stunning Plique-à-jour enamel in prefect condition with no chips.

Please have a look at the photos and video and dont hesitate to get in touch if you require any further information.