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Heraldic chain with pendant badge

early 17th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 520
The pendant on this elaborate chain is enameled with the arms of Lutheran Elector Christian II, who ruled Saxony from 1591 to 1611. It also bears the mottoes A deo pro imperio, meaning from God for the defense of the empire, and Time deum, honora caesarum, fear God, honor the emperor. Several versions of this chain and badge survive, made for members of Christian II’s inner circle and so intimate that they were sometimes buried with their recipients.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Heraldic chain with pendant badge
  • Maker: Michael Botza (active 1592–1633)
  • Date: early 17th century
  • Culture: German, Dresden
  • Medium: Partly enameled gold, pearl
  • Dimensions: Length: 20 3/4 in. (52.7 cm)
  • Classifications: Metalwork-Gold and Platinum, Jewelry
  • Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
  • Object Number: 17.190.879
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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