Lot 24
Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. 3rd to 2nd century BCE. A glistening emblem of celestial grace, this Hellenistic gold lunula pendant captures both the elegance of Greek ornament and the mystique of ancient symbolism. Shaped like a crescent moon - its name drawn from the Latin 'lunula,' meaning little moon - the pendant is composed of 20.9 karat gold and exudes a soft, sun-warmed glow. The triple-lobed silhouette is rare and refined, its arches evoking both the moon's phases and the feminine divine. Across the front, delicate twisted wirework forms three concentric arcs, each punctuated by tiny applied gold granules that gleam like stars arranged with ritual intent. The border is framed with a tight braid of twisted wire, expertly soldered along the edge, demonstrating the high technical sophistication of Hellenistic jewelers. These decorative elements are not merely aesthetic - they suggest cosmic order, protection, and the continuity of cycles. Size: 1.3" W x 1.1" H (3.3 cm x 2.8 cm); gold quality: 87.12% (20.9 karats); weight: 3 grams
The reverse remains plain, its polished surface offering contrast to the detailed front. A carefully formed loop is integrated at the top, designed to suspend the pendant close to the chest, where it may have served both as an adornment and a talisman.
Lunula pendants were especially favored during the Hellenistic period for their association with the goddess Artemis and lunar deities, as well as their protective and apotropaic qualities. In the fluid cultural currents of the Greek East, such forms also absorbed eastern influences, linking astral symbolism with beauty and power.
Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s; ex-private UK collection; ex-Arthur Jacson collection, 1970s-1980s
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#195327
- Condition: Intact, excellent, and wearable with good preservation of filigree and granulation.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |