Object Description
A fine Greek, Hellenistic, gold pendant in the shape of an amphora. It features a cylindrical neck leading to a biconical jasper body and a small gold granulated bead. The pendant is further embellished with two dolphins, finely modelled in gold, one at either side of the suspension loop, creating the handles of the amphora. The dolphins are rendered naturalistically with delicate engravings to the body, fins and tail. The eyes are represented by a small circular cell which possibly would have been set with a gemstone. The design is further enriched with a row of granulation curving down the back of the dolphins as well as around the perimeter of the eyes. A further loop has been added in antiquity to the top of the pendant for suspension. This beautiful item of jewellery testifies to the extreme quality of Greek Hellenistic goldsmith art.
Date: Circa 2nd-1st Century BC