BA-MA-0005 Ophelia

Artifact Description

A mourning adornment in the form of a skull pendant, distinguished by a division of character. One half remains largely unadorned, while the other bears an arrangement of pearls, crystal, and jeweled ornamentation whose exact composition differs between recorded examples. Entered into the Ledger as an object in which severity and ornament are held in uncommon balance. The Archive recognizes these variations not as inconsistencies, but as characteristic of the artifact itself.

Provenance

The precise origin remains unconfirmed. Its present construction reflects careful modern workmanship, yet the sensibility of the piece recalls mourning tokens whose design precedes their manufacture by many generations. No accompanying documentation has ever been presented with an authenticated example, and those who have surrendered one to the Archive have seldom claimed knowledge of its earlier history.

The Archive preserves these observations without preference, offering no conclusion regarding age beyond what the object itself is willing to reveal.

Observations

No two authenticated examples have proven identical. Differences are most often found in the placement, proportion, and selection of pearls and crystal, though each specimen retains the same unmistakable division between ornament and bare bone.

Collectors frequently remark that Ophelia attracts attention slowly rather than immediately. It is often overlooked in an initial survey, yet proves unexpectedly difficult to forget once examined closely. The consistency of this observation has warranted permanent inclusion within the record.

Preservation Note

Keep from damp and from all perfumed oils. When laid aside, allow the chain to rest freely, and permit no weight to bear upon the ornamentation. Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Excessive handling of the jeweled surface is discouraged.

Curator's Disclaimer

The Blackwood Archive records that certain objects demonstrate an unusual tendency to remain with particular custodians for many years, while others pass rapidly from hand to hand. Ophelia has exhibited examples of both. The Archive records the pattern only and offers no explanation for it.

 Current Custodian 

Available.  Request transfer.