DescriptionAmong the treasures of the Museum’s historic Cesnola Collection are two gold crescent-shaped earrings produced on Cyprus (5th century B.C.–1st century A.D.). They are embellished with granulation, a form of ornamentation in which tiny grains of metal are fused to an underlying surface metal. Such a combination of a gold setting with semiprecious stones speaks of influence from the East. Our dramatic earrings are based on these ancient Cypriot originals.
22K matte gold overlay, with glass cabochons. Small: 1'' diam.; large: 1 1/4'' diam. Pierced, with gold-filled wires.
- 22K matte gold overlay, with glass cabochons
- Small: 1'' diam.; large: 1 1/4'' diam.
- Pierced, with gold-filled wires
Art HistorySince early prehistoric times, Cyprus has been a way station for ships circulating around the eastern Mediterranean. Sailors, warriors, and merchants of many nationalities, including Greeks, Phoenicians, Egyptians, and Persians, passed through Cyprus, established settlements there, or took control of the island. The exposure of Cypriot craftsmen to a wide range of materials from both East and West is reflected in the jewelry styles that emerged in Cyprus.