Antique French Silver Our Lady of Lourdes Stanhope Pendant, Miniature Viewer with Three Lourdes Scenes

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A rare and charming antique French Stanhope pendant formed as a small three-dimensional figure of Our Lady of Lourdes.

The Virgin Mary is shown standing in prayer with her hands joined, wearing her long robes, veil and rosary. A tiny Stanhope viewing lens is cleverly incorporated into the rounded base of the figure.

When held towards a light and viewed closely, three miniature Lourdes scenes can be seen: the Sanctuary, the Apparition and the Grotto. The photographs show some gentle age-related fading and wear, but the scenes remain quite clear and the captions beneath them can still be read.

Stanhope viewers were popular French pilgrimage souvenirs during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their tiny microphotographs allowed pilgrims to carry images of important religious sites with them. This sculptural example is particularly attractive, as the Stanhope is incorporated into the figure of Our Lady rather than set into a conventional medal or cross.

The pendant is believed to be silver. A very small old hallmark appears to be present on the upper hanging ring, although it is too worn and indistinct to identify with certainty. The figure is hollow, as is typical of these lightweight silver pilgrimage pendants, and it retains its original hanging ring.

The pendant is in good antique condition, with light surface wear, small marks, darkened areas and a natural patina consistent with age. There is some ageing around the viewing aperture, while the Stanhope lens remains securely in place and usable. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Height: 1³⁄₁₆ inches (3 cm), excluding the hanging ring
Width: ⅞ inch (1 cm)
Weight: 1.59 g
Material: Believed to be silver, with a small indistinct hallmark
Origin: France
Date: Circa 1900–1920