Details
A rare and remarkable survivor from the late 18th century, this grand antique Iberian cross pendant centres on five beautifully hand-cut, foil-backed paste stones, each housed within deep cone-shaped colet settings that lift them to catch the light with the icy brilliance of fine diamonds. The principal stones are framed by smaller glittering pastes and delicate openwork scrolls that subtly form heart motifs before branching outward to create the cross. Completing the composition, the largest pear-cut paste is suspended from an articulated drop, allowing it to sway gracefully from the bottom.
Traditional Iberian jewellery of the 17th and 18th centuries is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and strong ties to regional folk costume and Catholic devotion with stylised crosses being prominent depictions. This piece bears a later eagle hallmark on the bale, confirming its Portuguese origin and silver base, and has been richly overlaid in a warm 18ct golden-bronze vermeil.
Remarkably well preserved, the pendant retains its original splendour, with the stones and front remaining in excellent condition, with some visible indentation and historic repair at the back, that is entirely commensurate with its age. A rare, museum-worthy example of Portuguese craftsmanship, it is an exceptional acquisition for collectors or anyone seeking a historic statement piece.
WEIGHT: 22.5 grams
MEASURES: Height 91mm x Width 88mm x Depth 9mm
METAL: Silver/ 18ct Gold Vermeil
STONES: Paste Stones
AGE: Georgian (Circa 1780 – 1800)
MARKS: Silver Portuguese Eagle mark
CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age.
ITEM NUMBER: 26-058
