This is an unusual Victorian Silver pendant frame in the form of a cross, by the renowned silversmith William Neal, & fully hallmarked for London 1874.

I'm not sure what the purpose of this item was, perhaps some form of medal / regalia, or to hold a photograph, miniature, or lock / woven hair as a mourning piece? (the piece looks to be a little large to wear as jewellery).

The frame is in the form of a cross (a variation of a cross pattee) with a loop & suspension ring at the top, & a circular well in the centre, into which, fits a circular Silver frame (the frame would have originally been glazed).

Each arm of the cross has been beautifully chased with a scrolling & winged panel containing a cross & circle design, with a fleur-de-lis at either side. The top arm contains a vacant cartouche.

The circular well in the centre is approx 1/8" (3mm) deep, & holds a lift out circular frame. The interior rim of the frame is stepped at one end, & would have held a glass or celluloid panel.

The rear is fully hallmarked with the makers mark 'WN' (William Neal), the lion passant (925 Sterling), the leopards head (London), the date letter 't' (1874 - 75), & the Victoria Head duty mark. The suspension ring & interior frame also bear the lion passant.

The cross measures approx 2 3/4" square (approx 7cm), with the central frame being approx 1 1/2" (3.8cm) in diameter. The weight is 25.1 grammes.

Condition is Fine for it's 136 years, with no damage or repairs. There are 3 small scratch marks to the base of the well, which are very old & would be covered by whatever is placed in the frame.