Gold leaf
Pendant in the form of a leaf.
Minoan goldsmiths used sophisticated techniques to create elaborate jewelry, headdresses, and ornaments for hair and clothing, often in the form of naturalistic motifs such as plants, flowers, and marine life. The objects in the collection represent different gold-working methods. Many of the ornaments were cut from gold hammered into thin sheets, some decorated with patterns raised in relief from the back. Gold was also melted and poured into molds. Imported primarily from Egypt, gold was extremely rare. Only the very wealthy could afford such adornments.
Minoan goldsmiths used sophisticated techniques to create elaborate jewelry, headdresses, and ornaments for hair and clothing, often in the form of naturalistic motifs such as plants, flowers, and marine life. The objects in the collection represent different gold-working methods. Many of the ornaments were cut from gold hammered into thin sheets, some decorated with patterns raised in relief from the back. Gold was also melted and poured into molds. Imported primarily from Egypt, gold was extremely rare. Only the very wealthy could afford such adornments.
Artwork Details
- Title: Gold leaf
- Period: Early Minoan II–III
- Date: ca. 2300–2100 BCE
- Culture: Minoan
- Medium: Gold
- Dimensions: H.: 2 5/8 in. (6.6 cm)
- Classification: Gold and Silver
- Credit Line: Bequest of Richard B. Seager, 1926
- Object Number: 26.31.509
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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Minoan
ca. 2500–2200 BCE
Minoan
ca. 2300–2100 BCE
Minoan
ca. 2300–2100 BCE
Minoan
ca. 2300–2100 BCE
Minoan
ca. 2300–2100 BCE
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