DATE: Georgian, c.1750

LOVE TAKES TIME. This is a Chelsea-Derby porcelain seal fob (aka Chelsea Fob), made in England during the 18th century circa 1750. The porcelain was cast from a mould, before being finely painted - in this case Cupid, joined by a lovebird and a charming Dalmatian, appears to be in the process of stealing a clock... the meaning: Love Takes Time. They often feature a French motto in red lettering around the base, in this case it's "Gage D'Amour", or "Token of Love", and an intaglio carved carnelian base (I'm not entirely sure who's depicted here, but he's wearing a laurel wreath...). Remarkable that something so delicate has survived so many years...

STONES 

Carnelian Agate

MEASUREMENTS 

Height: 3.4cm

Base: 1.9 x 1.6cm

WEIGHT 

5.6g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 9k gold

CONDITION 

Good, some damage to the lower right hand edge of the carnelian base. The very top of the fob, where the bail is attached, has been previously restored