Gold earring with glass head pendant
Small rod hole in blue base at bottom; overlay in yellow forming face with pointed chin; applied twisted headband in blue, yellow, and turquoise across forehead; above, applied large suspension ring in blue, projecting forward.
Large curl of hair in blue above ears, extending onto back over top of base; eyes as sunken blue rings; long, rounded nose; chubby cheeks; mouth with parted lips; projecting chin.
Intact; dulling and slight iridescent weathering.
These pendants were used as protective amulets to ward off evil. Similar pendants are frequently represented on Cypriot votive statues and figurines, particularly "temple boys."
Artwork Details
- Title: Gold earring with glass head pendant
- Period: Hellenistic
- Date: 3rd–1st century BCE
- Culture: Phoenician or Carthaginian
- Medium: Gold, glass
- Dimensions: Height: 3/4 in. (1.9 cm)
- Classifications: Gold and Silver, Glass
- Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
- Object Number: 74.51.4029
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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