Silver gilt and niello pendant with a Roman soldier

A silver gilt and niello pendant with a roundel depicting a Roman soldier on horseback.

Italian, 19th century or earlier.

The bail is marked with a French duty mark in the form of a swan.

Measures 3.9 x 3.7cm (excluding loose bail).

Niello is a black mixture, usually of sulphur, copper, silver, and lead, used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal, especially silver. It is added as a powder or paste, then fired until it melts or at least softens, and flows or is pushed into the engraved lines in the metal.