Antique Victorian Anglo Indian Silver Deity Locket Lakshmi Swami Ware c1890

Beautiful, authentic piece of late Victorian-era history: an Anglo-Indian "Swami Ware" silver keepsake memento locket, dating to the late 19th century (circa 1880–1900). This pocket pendant features exceptional, deep-relief hand-chased repoussé craftsmanship typical of the Madras colonial silversmithing tradition during the British Raj.

The locket is uniquely double-sided, showcasing distinct Hindu mythological figures on each face:

• Side A: Features a detailed deity (resembling Kartikeya or Krishna) riding their divine vehicle (vahana), surrounded by intricately chased traditional scrollwork and foliage.

• Side B: Features Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, seated in a serene posture on a swan (hamsa), holding lotus blossoms in her upper hands.

Interior Detail:

When opened, the locket reveals the crisp intaglio (negative) reverse of the exterior repoussé work, displaying faint remnants of original interior gilding. The left memento panel fully retains its original, charming Victorian-era dotted paper liner adorned with a small printed flower motif.

Condition Report:

• Exterior: Excellent antique condition with a rich, uncleaned natural patina in the deep crevices that beautifully accentuates the high-relief detailing. No major dents or deep structural scratches.

• Mechanism: The hinge is strong, straight, and aligns perfectly. The locket closes flush and snaps securely shut.

• Interior: Exceptional condition for its age. The left keepsake panel completely retains its original protective glass pane securely nested inside the inner bezel ring, flawlessly preserving the original paper liner beneath it.

• Markings: Unmarked, which is historically accurate and standard for genuine 19th-century Indian Swami silver.

This is a premier, highly intact example for collectors of Victorian mementos, colonial Indian silver, or devotional antique jewelry.

Shipping includes careful, secure packaging. Please review all photos for exact condition details