Pendant in the form of a fish
Pendants in the form of living creatures, both real and fantastic, start to appear in Spain in large numbers in the latter part of the sixteenth century. Although highly embellished with precious gems, most reflect the interest of Spanish goldsmiths in the lifelike portrayal of the underlying natural form. Dolphins and other sea creatures seem to have been particularly popular as talismans, perhaps reflecting the dangers inherent in the maritime enterprises so central to the exploitation of Spain's overseas empire — the source of the gold and emeralds used to produce this fish.
Artwork Details
- Title: Pendant in the form of a fish
- Date: late 16th–early 17th century
- Culture: Spanish
- Medium: Gold, enamel, pearls, emeralds
- Dimensions: Overall: 3 3/4 × 1 15/16 × 7/8 in. (9.5 × 4.9 × 2.2 cm)
- Classifications: Metalwork-Gold and Platinum, Jewelry
- Credit Line: The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973
- Object Number: 1974.356.655
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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Reinhold Vasters
ca. 1870–95
probably Spanish or Mexican
17th century
possibly Spanish
first half 17th century
Spanish
17th century
probably Spanish
late 16th–early 17th century
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