The mystery deepens regarding an object spotted in a photograph taken more than 120 years ago which prompted a plea for information from a history society.

The News reported last October how a photograph of a servant girl holding a mysterious object was shown at a meeting of the Bridport History Society, sparking a discussion on what it could possibly be.

The photograph was found in the house of Robert Potts, a photographer, in Victoria Grove, Bridport, and is thought to have been taken sometime between 1873 and 1898.

The photograph was restored by Carlos Guarita from an old glass negative.

The society appealed for help from members of the public via the Bridport News to try to figure out what the girl is holding.

A spokesman for the society said at the time: "It is a shiny object, suggesting possibly metal or glass, and the servant girl's clothing could be perhaps Spanish, Italian or Eastern European.

"Subsequent attempts to identify the object and its possible origin and purpose have been unsuccessful and the society would love to hear from anyone who can help with this."

Since then, the society said it had received a few suggestions which members have followed up but so far it was unable to draw any definite conclusions so investigations are still ongoing.

The society said: "Thank you to all those who responded with interesting suggestions.

"Our investigations have now led us to consult an authority on the history of art and design, and on her advice the Goldsmiths’ Company. We are awaiting further information and will update readers when we know more."

If you think you know what the object is or want more information, email bridporthistorysociety.01@gmail.com