10k Gold Repousse Nymphs + Beast Heart Pendant. Art Nouveau

For sale is a truly unusual and elaborate 9-10k yellow gold antique heart pendant from the Art Nouveau era. This romantic piece is alive with sculptural detail. At the top of the heart, the head of a great beast—part monster, part dragon—gazes outward with fierce expression.

Flowing down each side of the heart are the entwined forms of maidens or nymphs, their torsos and arms rendered in the graceful, sensuous style typical of the Art Nouveau period.

Scattered across the design are tiny natural motifs—berries, flowers, perhaps even mushrooms—adding to the pendant’s mysterious symbolism.

Like all repoussé jewelry, the pendant is made from sturdy yet hollow gold, giving it depth and dimension without heaviness. The back is polished smooth, and the hidden bail makes the piece appear as though it floats on a chain.

This pendant feels like a fragment of mythology captured in gold. Whether the imagery represents a specific tale or simply the era’s fascination with nature and fantasy, it is a rare and striking survivor. I have never seen another like it.

Details:

• Era: Antique, Art Nouveau (c. 1890–1915)
• Metal: 10k yellow gold (tests as 10k, confirmed by acid test)
  
• Pendant height: 0.75 inches
• Weight: 1.35 grams
• Bail: Hidden on the back
• Condition: Antique; The item shows normal wear for a pre-owned piece (light scratches, dings, dents and scuff marks)