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Georgian 18ct Gold & Carved Coral Necklace

493S
640 Admirers Rare Find
Written by Olly Gerrish

This Neoclassical necklace was most likely made in Trapani in Sicily circa 1820. The symbol of the lion has been used for centuries and featured in Sicilian art as early as the 12th century. Hence the central section of this necklace is a carved coral lion. There are carved coral Cupids around this necklace. Cupid is the son of Venus, the Goddess of love, and Mercury, and the winged messenger to the Gods. He is a mischievous character associated with earthly, erotic love. So he is riding a phallus in two sections. There is also a nautical theme of Cupid with a fish and an anchor in the other two sections, perhaps alluding to Sicily being an island. In between the carved coral are three fine 18ct gold chains. The hidden tongue clasp has been carved with a rose for true love. In short this necklace may have been given as a wedding present as you have the themes of Fertility, Love, and Sicilian patriotism. .

Ollys Pick

A rare and beautiful Georgian necklace.

Item Number
493S
Measurements
Length 36.5cm
Centre Coral lion 3cm by 1.3cm
Materials
Date & Origin
Provenance
Italian
Hallmarks

Unmarked, tested to 18ct gold.

Condition
Very Good
Discovered
3 years ago
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