Antique Gold Fob with Lion Surmount
Its a legend! This eye catching jewel is featured on page 61 in the latest 7th edition of the book, "Answers to Questions About Old Jewelry" by C. Jeanenne Bell! See over 30 of pieces of our jewelry highlighted - both currently for sale and from the recent past. Don't miss this wonderful resource.
Positioned as a surmount on a 19th century Victorian fob, this solid 15k yellow over rose gold lion lies couchant (in repose) upon a pedestal of gold fretwork. The regal beast is on all fours with his head erect like a sphinx. The ornately chased solid gold base is mounted with a foiled and closed back faceted citrine of sunray yellow.
Measures more than 1-1/4 inches (3.4 cm) in height including the top ring with a diameter of more than ΒΌ of an inch (0.8 cm). The base is more than 7/8 of an inch (2.3 cm) by 5/8 of an inch (1.6 cm). The citrine measures 20.15 mm by 10.4 mm. The fob has a weight of 10.5 grams. Very good condition; light wear to the design elements from handling; small indent to gold rim of citrine. English in origin and dates to circa 1850.
Historical notes: Often thought to have originated during the medieval heraldic era, the image of the lion has a history that reaches far back into antiquity. The major religion of the predynastic period of Egypt (prior to 3100 BCE) associated the lion in repose with the sacred deity, Horus. Around 300 BCE Alexander the Great ordered a great limestone sculpture to be carved and placed near city gates to act as a talisman to protect the city and its people until he returned.
