Design for earring with lion's head and diamond
16th century
Classification
jewelry
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-5028
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Design for Earring with Lion's Head and Diamond* from the 16th century offers a glimpse into Renaissance-era jewelry artistry. Crafted as a conceptual sketch—likely intended for a wearable pendant earring—the design centers a fierce lion's head, a motif symbolizing strength, courage, and nobility in European heraldry and classical mythology. The inclusion of a diamond highlights the era's fascination with precious gems, which were prized for their rarity and believed to hold protective powers. Dating to the 1500s, this piece reflects the Renaissance revival of intricate goldsm...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...