Pair of Roman Gilded Copper Earrings w/ Hercules Knots
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Description
**Originally Listed At $400**
Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A matched pair of gilded copper knot earrings, likely representing the Hercules knot - a beloved symbol of protection as well as love and marriage. The earrings present the attractive knot at the center with coil patterns extending to either side. Lovely and meaningful. Size: 0.75" W x 0.625" H (1.9 cm x 1.6 cm); total weight: 4 grams.
In the Classical World, the Hercules knot (Greek Herakles knot) was believed to be the knot form used by Herakles to tie the skin of the Nemean lion around his neck after he slayed the beast, thus fulfilling the first of twelve labors that King Eurystheus gave him. Given this affiliation with the Greek hero known for his mighty strength and courage, this knot was generally regarded as a protective symbol.
According to the British Museum, "The marriage-knot or knot of Hercules, a strong knot created by two intertwined ropes, originated as a healing charm in ancient Egypt, but is best known for its use in ancient Greece and Rome as a protective amulet, most notably as a wedding symbol. The symbolism of the knot survived well beyond its religious use, and was a common symbol in medieval and Renaissance love tokens." In addition, according to Roman historian Pliny, the Herakles knot had the ability to cure wounds.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#143003
Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A matched pair of gilded copper knot earrings, likely representing the Hercules knot - a beloved symbol of protection as well as love and marriage. The earrings present the attractive knot at the center with coil patterns extending to either side. Lovely and meaningful. Size: 0.75" W x 0.625" H (1.9 cm x 1.6 cm); total weight: 4 grams.
In the Classical World, the Hercules knot (Greek Herakles knot) was believed to be the knot form used by Herakles to tie the skin of the Nemean lion around his neck after he slayed the beast, thus fulfilling the first of twelve labors that King Eurystheus gave him. Given this affiliation with the Greek hero known for his mighty strength and courage, this knot was generally regarded as a protective symbol.
According to the British Museum, "The marriage-knot or knot of Hercules, a strong knot created by two intertwined ropes, originated as a healing charm in ancient Egypt, but is best known for its use in ancient Greece and Rome as a protective amulet, most notably as a wedding symbol. The symbolism of the knot survived well beyond its religious use, and was a common symbol in medieval and Renaissance love tokens." In addition, according to Roman historian Pliny, the Herakles knot had the ability to cure wounds.
Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#143003
Condition
Expected surface wear with normal bending and gilt losses as shown. Copper sections that have been exposed have developed a beautiful green patina. Not wearable as is, but a reputable jeweler should be able to create a setting for them.
Buyer's Premium
- 26.5%
Pair of Roman Gilded Copper Earrings w/ Hercules Knots
Estimate $350 - $525
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