Small circular locket housing a daguerreotype-format memorial presentation, photographed and assembled as a post-mortem keepsake. The interior reveals two distinct locks of human hair arranged behind glass, indicating commemoration of two individuals. No photographic image is visible within the locket at present; the format and construction are consistent with mid-19th century daguerreian mourning jewelry. The hinged design and compact scale align with personal wearable memorial objects intended for close keeping rather than display.
The use of hairwork in combination with daguerreotype-era settings reflects established mourning practices of the 1840s to 1860s, when hair was preserved as a tangible surrogate for the deceased. The presence of two separate hair groupings suggests familial or intimate relational significance, though no identifying names or dates are visible.
The locket appears to be metal, likely brass with a gold-colored wash based on surface tone and wear. Initials are engraved on the exterior lid, visible in the images, with no maker’s mark or hallmark observed. The interior retains its original glass covers and metal bezels, forming a complete and self-contained mourning object.
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