Antique 18th Century French Portrait Miniature 18k Locket Frame, Plaited Hair in Back c.1795

An exceptionally fine late 1700s memento, hand painting portrait miniature in combination with plaiting of brunette hair, perfectly preserved and mounted within a large 18k gold locket-style portrait frame. Each side protected, still, beneath original slightly convex cover glass, the hair art side still with a seal to its glass (this is why you see tiny flecks of dust within, the photography lights hitting tiniest dust particles – you don’t see those in hand). A generous bale up top and all of the gold is excellent, no dents or damage. These were meant to hang or to wear like a pendant on a ribbon or long chain in its time. Obviously this one has been very well-cherished. Full measurements noted on photo, but it is 2 7/8″ x 2 3/8″ and is 1/4″ in depth. NOTE: Gold weight on this one is 6.86 grams, so $1332 in melt value (frame only) as of Jan 28, 2026.  Please do not destroy this antique to melt for gold.

Very good to excellent condition throughout, I see no flaws notable. A mention that the side with plaited hair is still sealed with its cover glass, and I did not separate it for fear of disrupting the hair art, so you do see a tiny bit of dust inside that cover glass. No flaws to painting. I do believe this young man is part of the Incroyables fashion and political movement, c.1795-99, the high collar and extra thick neck-wrap.