19th Century Sicilian Coral Necklace of Persephone and the Maenads
19th Century Sicilian Coral Necklace of Persephone and the Maenads
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It is said that when Perseus slayed Medusa, her blood seeped into the ocean waters, turning the coral underneath a haunting shade of red. Stained with the vibrant hue of Medusa’s demise, coral thereafter became a symbol of protection against evil.
This gorgeous 19th century Sicilian Coral Necklace feels reminiscent of that myth, with its vibrant crimson-ochre stones exuding an air of mystery and aegis. A beautiful example of Italian craftspersonship, each coral bead is carefully shaped and entwined to create an overall eye-catching design.
At the heart of this necklace rests another iconic Greek figure: Persephone, goddess of spring, and Queen of the Underworld. Her likeness, masterfully carved with upmost reverence, captures her ethereal beauty and enigmatic grace.
Alongside Persephone are the smaller visages of the Maenads: Dionysus’ sacred and devoted companions. Their faces, rendered with exquisite detail, make up most of the beading on this necklace; it almost appears as if they’re holding court as Persephone’s sacred sentinel. The inclusion of Maenads in this necklace feels poetic, as in the Orphic myths, Dionysus is the original son of Persephone by way of Zeus.
With its origin in Sicily, this necklace was most likely an artifact of the Grand Tour era. Souvenirs of coral jewelry were a popular choice for Victorian travelers, as they were not only protective talismans, but a symbol of one’s worldliness. A truly museum-quality adornment perfect for any connoisseur’s collection!
Coral necklaces are also exceptional in the fact that they were an essential part of the Victorian “bad girl” wardrobe; if good girls had pearls, then the town problems got coral. Just ask the pre-Raphaelites!
Coral necklaces feature heavily in many Pre-Raphaelite paintings, and painters Rosetti and Sandys especially loved to paint their beloved muses with coral strands around their necks. This particular necklace, with its inclusion of Persephone and her maenads, would have been an especially enviable addition to any wardrobe. Talk about chic!
Materials and Features: Coral and 18ct, string!
Age/Origin: Italian, C. 1840
Marks: None
Measurements: 17.5”
Condition: Excellent condition; there is some minor nipping to the tubular interspersed beads but overall quite good for the age!
Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.
