A pair of gold earrings, each composed with a carved cameo modelling a Medusa face within a pierced discoid setting, joined by three garnet and pearl beads to pierced scrollwork bar below; three articulated dangles with circular settings, set with garnet above pearl and twisted terminal, loop to the reverse.
4 cm. height.
Weight: 9 grams.
CONDITION
Intact and excellent condition.
PROVENANCE
Property of British gentleman, formed in the London art market in the 2000s.
CATALOGUE NOTE
In the classical world, the head of the gorgon Medusa was thought of as the ultimate protection against harm. The mythological hero Perseus used the snake-locked head to turn his enemies to stone. In Roman times, the head of the Gorgon was used to bring good fortune and frighten away the evil eye.