Silver gilt and niello marriage pendant.

A silver gilt and niello marriage pendant.

Italian, 15th century.

Measures 4.6 x 3.8 x 1.1cm.

To one side the pendant depicts the Virgin and Christ child and to the other a married couple within a floral border.
The niello plaques are set within a silver gilt frame with rope-work decoration applied to the outer edge.

Niello is a black mixture, usually of sulphur, copper, silver and lead. It is used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal, especially silver. It is added as a powder or paste, then fired until it melts or at least softens and flows or is pushed into the engraved lines in the metal.