Byzantine/Islamic Pair of Gold, Turquoise, Pearl Earrings, ca. 10th century CE
This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $75 if shipping internationally.
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: Intact and in excellent condition, with minor surface wear consistent with age.
Provenance: Collection of Henry Anavian, Sumer Gallery, NYC. 1980’s. To family by inheritance.
QUESTIONS? Just click the Contact Us tab on your right.
We ship Tuesday to Friday via ground courier and usually same-day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping, and insurance are free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
For overseas shipments, we charge a low flat rate that includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance, and carrier fees, in compliance with all U.S. and International customs requirements.
Overseas shipments are sent via FedEx, DHL, or UPS International Priority, so contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
Choose options
Recently viewed
Come Visit Us!
1010 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 340
Washington DC. 20007
Tues - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm
Sat/Sun/Mon By appointment
