Antique Pendant in the Shape of a Kithara With Natural Pearls in Gold, c. 1900

The kithara is a luxurious form of lyre that was played in ancient Greece, especially on festive occasions. It accompanied the recitation of epics and lyrical poems and was played in particular in honor of the god Apollo, who himself is often depicted with this instrument. It is said that Apollo once even defeated the shepherd god Pan in a musical contest with a kithara. The kithara is also regarded as a symbol of the fine arts in a broader sense. In his role as Apollo Musagetes, the leader of the Muses, the god with this instrument became a symbol of poetry, music and inspiration. It is precisely this motif that the pieces of jewellery shown here take up. The pendant shows the kithara crafted in 14-karat gold and completely set with pearls. With its figurative theme, the pendant is entirely in keeping with the taste of the turn of the century before last, when jewellery in the form of instruments, objects and even animals and sports equipment were particularly popular. We discovered this rare piece in London, where numerous comparable pieces were once purchased. Very similar pieces can be found in the catalogue of the renowned firm Saunders & Shepherd in 1903/04 (see last illustration), see Peter Hinks (ed.): Viktorianischer Schmuck, Hildesheim/Zurich/New York 1996, p. 152. We have added a matching gold chain to this piece of jewellery. Even today, it is an eloquent and symbolic accessory for all those who feel connected to the fine arts.

Estimate:£1,095.76

View all items fromHofer AntikschmuckorJewellery & Gems