Old lock of hair 1940 jewelry box Museum Orleans vintage rare

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Astonishing antique hair lock presented in a rectangular case with a textured finish, typical of mid-20th century jewelry cases. The case bears the golden inscription "BIJOUTERIE DU MUSÉE, 6 rue Isabelle Romée, ORLÉANS" on the inside of the lid, attesting to its origin and initial use, likely related to the preservation of jewelry or precious personal mementos.

The lock of hair, dark blonde to light brown in color, is held by a black thread and accompanied by a handwritten paper label bearing the inscription "Nicolas 1 an" in blue ink. These elements are carefully arranged inside the case, which has a light-colored satin-like fabric interior, enhancing the precious and intimate character of the set.

The exterior of the case, visible in the photo, features a grid-patterned texture, reminiscent of a shagreen or faux leather finish, in a light, neutral shade. There are no superfluous decorative elements, which is consistent with the aesthetic codes of the 1940s-1950s for this type of keepsake or family relic.

The set stands out for its retro and rare appearance, at the crossroads of jewelry, curiosity cabinets, and intimate memory objects. It is a material testament to the practice of preserving hair locks as childhood mementos, a common tradition until the mid-20th century.

On the visible side, no major defects are to be reported: the case appears to be in good visual condition, with no snags or obvious wear on the photographed area. The handwritten label is legible and the lock of hair is well preserved in its original case.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The set (case, lock of hair, label) appears clean and well-maintained based on the visible side in the photo. Details of wear or possible defects on other sides are not visible here.

Did you know? The preservation of hair locks in cases or lockets was a family tradition in Europe starting in the 19th century, often to mark important life events, such as a child's first haircut or a remembrance of the deceased. Jewelers sometimes offered cases dedicated to this use until the 1950s.

Professional Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by professional seller AFW, specialist in antique items and historical mementos.

Keywords: antique hair lock, vintage jewelry case, retro souvenir, 1940s hair box, curiosity cabinet, family relic, hair keepsake, hair souvenir box, Bijouterie du Musée Orléans, retro case, child's memory object, shagreen case