Pair of Earrings with Birds
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.New methods of crafting jewelry became popular during the early Islamic period, transforming the aesthetics of personal adornment. These crescent-shaped earrings display confronted birds—by now, three-dimensional in shape. The preference for filigree and wire decoration results in sophisticated, intricate designs visually distinct from Byzantine traditions.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pair of Earrings with Birds
- Date: 7th–8th century
- Geography: Made in Egypt or Syria
- Medium: Gold wire, granulation, cast details, pearls
- Dimensions: Each: 2 5/8 x 2 1/16 in. (6.6 x 5.3 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Benaki Museum, Athens (1812)
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters