Pendant
1500-1600
Medium
Decorative Arts-Jewelry
Classification
Decorative Arts-Jewelry
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of John Gellatly
Accession Number
1929.8.212
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite pendant, crafted by an unidentified artist between 1500 and 1600, exemplifies the artistry of Renaissance-era jewelry. Dating to the 16th century, it to the Decorative Arts-Jewelry and is housed in the Smithsonian American Art, thanks to a generous gift from John Gellat. Such pieces were prized personal adornments, often worn as necklaces or attached to clothing, blending functionality with opulent display. The pendant features a historic bust in profile, a popular motif in Renaissance jewelry that evoked classical antiquity—think Roman coins and medals. This profile view allow...
About the Artist
Unidentified ( ) · –