Georgian Gold Pendant with Grisaille Enamel of Two Cherubs

A charming Georgian pendant, probably French or English and dating to around 1820, centred on an oval enamel plaque in grisaille. Two cherubs appear in soft shades of grey and white against a delicate pink ground, giving the scene a quiet, poetic quality. The image has that intimate, reflective character so often admired in early 19th century decorative art, while the gold surround frames it with warmth and restraint. A small jewel, but one with atmosphere.

Jewellery Type
pendant

Condition
very good condition
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Country of origin
probably France or England

Style
Georgian
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Style specifics
Oval enamel plaque in grisaille, showing two cherubs painted in shades of grey and white against a pink ground, within a gold surround. The plaque appears to reflect the refined taste for sentimental and allegorical enamel miniatures associated with the late Georgian period. The present gold mounting may be of later date than the enamel plaque itself.

Period
early 19th century, circa 1820
Events & facts of this era, poetry of this era, fashion of this era.

Source of inspiration
The scene appears to refer to artistic creation: one cherub is absorbed in drawing, with palette and brushes at his feet, while the second places a finger to his lips in a gesture of silence and raises the other hand, suggesting that artistic labour is guided by inspiration.

Theme
allegory of artistic inspiration

Material
18K yellow gold (touchstone tested)
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Technique
Painted enamel in grisaille on an oval plaque, with the figures rendered in monochrome against a pink ground.

Extra information
The enamel plaque appears to be set within a gold mounting that may be of later date than the plaque itself.

Hallmarks
Marks and/or hallmarks present, but illegible.
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Dimensions
2.24 cm x 4.00 cm (0.88 inch x 1.57 inch)
see picture with a ruler in millimeters and inches

Weight
5,10 grams (3,28 dwt)

Adin Reference Nº
26065-0293

Copyright photography
Adin, fine antique jewellery

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