A Hellenistic Gold Crescent Pendant and Chain, Hellenistic Period, ca. 3rd - 1st century BCE

This exceptional gold pendant takes the form of a stylized crescent, intricately crafted from sheet gold and adorned with fine wire and granulation work. A central architectural motif, likely a temple façade, is flanked on either side by pairings of confronting bulls, symbols of fertility, strength, and protection in ancient iconography.

At either end of the crescent sit small rosettes, symbolic of divine light or celestial harmony. A third rosette is featured at the apex, anchoring the suspension loop, which connects to a beautifully preserved ancient loop-in-loop gold chain necklet with figure-8 links. A delicate, tapered gold drop hangs independently from the center of the crescent, adding movement and visual emphasis to the central temple scene. 

The combination of sacred architectural imagery, protective animals, and symbolic form strongly suggests this was a ritual or status ornament, likely worn by a woman of significant cultural or religious standing.

The preservation of both pendant and ancient chain is rare. Comparable crescent-shaped pendants with architectural and zoomorphic motifs have been featured in collections at the British Museum and the Ashmolean, often without a chain. The complexity of the iconography and condition elevate the piece’s historical and market value significantly.

Medium: Gold

Dimensions: Pendant height: 1 inch (2.5 cm), Width: 1 1/8 inches (2.85 cm). Chain length:  20 3/4 inches (52.71 cm)

Condition: The pendant is overall intact and in excellent condition.

Provenance: Private collection, New Jersey, formed in the 1970s - 2000s.