Scarce & Exquisite 17th C. Enamel “Boat” Earrings
Originating more than 2000 years ago, earrings such as the example here were referred to as traditional boat or boat-shaped earrings. So named as the design mirrored the crescent shaped hulls of the boats of the ancient Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. The popularity of the form re-emerged in the 17th and 18th century.
Hand-made from the tiny fitings to the ornamentation of exquisite polychromatic enamels in pink, blue and white, these petite in scale “boat” earrings are crafted of 18k yellow gold with a warm sheen that only antique gold can display.
Suspended from the mid point is a pendant drop consisting of a three orbed “bead” of black dotted white enamel. Following are two natural baroque pearls (untested but assumed natural due to examination and age). The enamel work of the crescent shaped earring is typical of the period both in its design and in the employment of white enamel with black dots. The Three Graces has received this pair of scarce and magnificent earrings from a private collection.
Measurements: Earring including wire is 1-7/16 inches (3.6 cm) in length by 3/8 of an inch (1 cm) in width. Weight for the pair is 4.8 grams (3.1 dwt).
Hallmarks: Illegible European hallmarks.
Condition: Very good for their age. Some enamel chipping and loss to both earrings visible with close inspection or a loupe; does not show when worn. General light wear.
Date & Origin: Late 17th or early 18th century and is European in origin.
For similar enamel work as well as for a discussion of the boat earring form please consult page 40 of “Earrings From Antiquity to the Present” by Triossi and Mascetti. In addition, refer to page 104 of "Jewellery Reference and Price Guide" by Michael Poynder for a somewhat similar example.
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