Georgian Mourning Pendant for a Child

A striking and moving 1830s late Georgian mourning brooch for a child, converted to a pendant via the addition of a bail. The frame and casing are all entirely solid 14k gold, and the stone is a natural turquoise. The heavily chased floral setting and smooth black enamel surround are all quite typical for the 1830s, but the mourning inscription was made in 1842:

“William W Aborn Ob. October 11th 1842 Aged 3 Years & 36 days”

The words “and 36 days” is deeply poetic and touching; from this meager line alone all that needs to be expressed is laid bare: that a child was taken away too soon; that his parents counted and cherished his time on earth to the days.