Gold earrings with pendant vase and ring
Unknown Artist
4th–3rd century BCE
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Other (95.15.180): 2 9/16 × 3/8 × 3/8 × 1 1/2 in. (64.6 × 8.9 × 10.2 × 37.6 mm, 10.15g) Diameter (interior): 7/8 in. (22.8 mm) Other (bead element): 9/16 in. (14 mm) Other (loop element): 1 in. (25.3 mm) Other (pendent element): 9/16 × 7/16 in. (14.5 × 11.7 mm) Other (95.15.181): 2 1/2 × 3/8 × 3/8 × 1 7/16 in. (63.7 × 9.9 × 9.3 × 36.3 mm, 10.42g) Diameter (interior): 7/8 in. (22.1 mm) Other (bead element): 1/2 in. (12.9 mm) Other (loop element): 15/16 in. (23.7 mm) Other (pendent element): 9/16 × 7/16 in. (14.4 × 11.9 mm)
Classification
Gold and Silver
Culture & Period
Etruscan · Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1895
Accession Number
95.15.180, .181
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
These delicate gold earrings, featuring pendant vases and rings, hail from Etruscan culture in the 4th–3rd century BCE, during the Classical period. Crafted by an unknown artist, the pair (accession numbers 95.15.180 and 95.15.181) showcases the Etruscans' mastery goldsmithing. Measuring about 2½ inches in length with interiors around ⅞ inch in diameter, they are remarkably fine—each weighing just over 10 grams—ing the precision required for such miniature forms. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through subscription purchase in 1895, they now reside in the Greek and Roman Art department. Etruscan jewelry like this was a hallmark of elite status in ancient Italy, where this sophisticated civilization thrived before Roman dominance. The pendants—a vase and ring—reflect everyday motifs elevated to ornamental luxury, likely worn by women at social or ceremonial occasions. Gold's rarity and workability allowed for intricate techniques, such as sheet forming and possible granulation, underscoring Etruscan innovation in metalwork that influenced later Roman artisans. These earrings offer a glimpse into a vibrant world of trade, artistry, and adornment, inviting us to marvel at their enduring sparkle.