Outstanding Demi-Parure; The Instruments of Diana
Outstanding Demi-Parure; The Instruments of Diana
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An incredible Archaeological Revival demi-parure consisting of a brooch and earrings, set in 15ct gold, presented in the original box. This magnetic parure features the doves of Peace and Hope, perched above a bow and quiver, bisected by a delicate arrow. In the very background of the scene, a lyre with two bird heads can just be seen below a laurel wreath, that is tied to the crossbar of the lyre. To the left of the central cameo, on the brooch, we see two roses, in bloom behind the outstretch wing of a dove, a motif that is once more repeated at the bottom of the scene.
The swirling barleycorn of the gold around the scenes is just magical-- tempting the eye to believe we are moving through the scene, as though the doves wings are just about to flutter. Or perhaps they just did...
The sentimental symbolism of the piece is not to be missed. While I am not a strict classicist who might go more in depth, my reading is as follows; the doves of Peace and Hope exchange an embrace atop the instruments of Diana, perhaps insisting that while love may hunt with wanton abandon, hope and peace will embrace its outcome. One must recall John Lyly's Gallathea when thinking of Diana's relationship to love-- especially Cupid's mockery of Diana's virginal followers, when he turns them to yearning bacchantes by his amorous love spells.
I couldn't resist an excerpt, gaze at the set while you enjoy a bit of Lyly's prose:
Materials and Features:
15ct gold, shell
Age/Origin:
Circa 1870, English
Marks: None
Weight:
5.5g pr of earrings (2.8g each)
13g brooch
18.5g without box
122.7g within box
Dimensions:
Brooch-- 2.25"
Earrings-- 1.25" in length
Condition: Excellent condition. Minor associated age wear. Most of the original stock tag is present at the bottom of the box- one pen mark to interior silk.
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.
