Carlo Giuliano enamel and pearl necklace

Carlo Giuliano enamel and pearl necklace

Description

Carlo Giuliano enamel and pearl necklace, the chain composed of sixteen black and white candy-twist enamelled links with sixteen seed pearls measuring approximately 3mm in diameter in between, all terminating to a gold S-hook clasp marked C.G. for Carlo Giuliano, suspending a pendant in the form of an Eros, realistically carved in gold with fine wirework and gold granulation decorations, holding a torch on the one hand and an amphora on the other, the torch set with a round pearl measuring approximately 2.7mm in diameter, circa 1870, the necklace measuring 35cm long, the pendant measuring 2.5×1.2cm, gross weight 10.3 grams.

Cf.: “Castellani and Giuliano, Revivalist Jewellers of the Nineteenth Century” by Geoffrey C.Munn, England, 1984, no.152, for a similar example of the candy-twist enamelled necklace, thought to be based on a 16th century example known to the Giuliano family.

A Carlo Giuliano enamel and pearl necklace, featuring an Archaeological Revival style Eros pendant, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of the late 19th century. The necklace boasts twisted cane links adorned with black and white enamel, each segment alternating with a pearl. The clasp bears the signature of the renowned Carlo Giuliano, a pioneer of the Archaeological Revival style. The pendant showcases a beautifully sculpted Eros with intricate wings, hair, and body ornaments, all embellished with gold granulation and filigree work. In one hand, Eros holds a torch set with a round pearl, symbolizing Hymen, the Greek and Roman god of marriage. In the other, he holds an iynx, the magical spinning wheel used to attract lovers. This charming necklace would serve as a beautiful and symbolic heirloom piece.