Rare antique micro-mosaic pendant with chain, crafted from gold-plated tombac and 333/8 carat yellow gold (stamped, tested and guaranteed).
This finely crafted Italian pendant made of gold-plated tombac is set with a beautiful micro-mosaic of tiny glass stones. The main motif is the Lion of St. Mark on a red background in a corded frame. The lion is both the symbol of the evangelist Mark and the city of Venice, where his relics have rested since 828 AD.
The Lion of St. Mark is classically depicted with wings and an open book; here, it also has a halo.
Around the lion's image are round and square areas filled with additional mosaic stones in decorative patterns.
The pendant has an elongated eyelet and is connected to a later added pea chain made of 333/8 K yellow gold (stamped and guaranteed).
This classic historical piece of jewellery was created around 1870 in Venice and is a beautiful testament to a technique that was already passé by the end of the 19th century.
Tiny coloured glass stones were arranged into motifs that primarily depicted ancient Roman ruins and sites, magnificent buildings, but also mythological or religious scenes, animals and flowers. These works were particularly popular with 19th-century educational travellers who toured Italy as part of the Grand Tour and liked to bring home small souvenirs.
At the turn of the 20th century, other travel souvenirs, such as photographs, came into fashion and the elaborate technique of micro mosaics increasingly faded into the background.
Length of the chain: 45.0 cm.
Dimensions of the pendant (including eyelet): 3.5 x 2.6 cm.
Weight: 7.5 grams in total.
Condition: Very good historical condition, small age-related defect within the micro mosaic, chain added later, freshly cleaned, see photos.
You will receive the pendant and chain lovingly packaged in one of our pretty cases and with a certificate of authenticity.
Please note: Vintage and antique jewellery are worn items that may show slight signs of wear due to their history.
