Medieval Gold Pendant 14th-16th Centuries

Description

Heading: Medieval gold pendant 14th-16th centuries

Material: Gold with polished garnets

Period: Medieval

Date: 14th-16th centuries

Origin: Europe

Condition: VF, with sandy encrustations from original find spot.

Description: An exquisite little bifacial pendant framework of gold, with three triangular tiered cells containing polished garnets cloison; each cell edge is granulated with a knop to each side and there is a a granulated suspension loop to the top. Wearable.

Size and Weight: 16mm, 1.56g 

Features and Provenance: Ex TimeLine auction, formerly a private Japanese collection.

The possession of gold and precious jewels was a status symbol during the medieval period. Only the higher ranked in society, such as royalty and the highest nobility could afford it or indeed feel safe enough to wear it. The lower ranks had to suffice with pewter or copper. Pieces of gold and silver were given additional colour by adding gems, these were polished rather than cut at this time. Devotional pieces, as well as those seen to have magical or protective value, were particularly prized.

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of the artefact and there are grades between

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of pattern etc present. visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of pattern etc present. but may be worn

Fine (F). Wear on the artefact and parts of item and pattern etc may be missing or not visible