Renaissance Eagle Hanging Pendant Jewel

Code: 10423

This is a rare Renaissance/Baroque figural pendant, dating to the 16th - 17th century A.D. The pendant is made from bronze, imitative of the more costly gold and enamel examples (see 335-1870, M.243-1975, in the V&A and here)

This example has lost the original jewel or pearl setting, it would have also had a second drop pearl suspended from the feet. The eagle was a very symbolic bird, one of great majesty and power. A similar Eagle pendant of King Sigismund Augustus of Poland. (Spanish Pendant mid-16th century) held in the National Museum in Warsaw.

This is a rare excavated piece, originally worn by a Spanish nobleman or statesman, either as a mark of rank, valour or as membership to a Knightly Order..

OBJECT: Pendant

CULTURE: Renaissance

DATE: c. mid 16th - early 17th century

MATERIAL: Bronze

SIZE:  28mm x 17mm x 13mm

WEIGHT: 7.4 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. European Private Collection