Byzantine/Islamic Pair of Gold, Turquoise, Pearl Earrings, ca. 10th century CE
MJ2534
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A matching pair of gold earrings, each formed as a circular hoop strung with three hollow, ovoid gold beads embellished with intricate openwork filigree. The gold beads alternate with three small natural pearls, while a circular turquoise cabochon in a plain gold bezel forms the central element of the composition. Each earring retains its integral gold wire ear hook, terminating in a small loop.
The combination of richly worked gold, turquoise and pearls reflects the luxurious and cosmopolitan character of jewelry produced throughout the eastern Mediterranean and Islamic world during the medieval period. The symmetrical arrangement of colored gemstones, pearls and filigree beads is characteristic of jewelry traditions shared across Byzantine and Islamic cultural centers. For a parallel example, see: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 52.4.8.
Medium: Gold, turquoise, pearl
Dimensions: Length: 0.875 ins (2.22 cm)
Condition: Completely wearable as is, the earrings are intact and in excellent condition overall, with minor surface wear consistent with age. Present beautifully.
Provenance: Collection of Henry Anavian, Sumer Gallery, NYC. 1980’s. To family by inheritance.
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