A long, gold tone mesh chain snake pendant with a well-moulded head part, open mouth and bright green/emerald glass/paste eyes. The snake has a semi-open mouth and a fixed loop under the head, so the snake can be worn on a chain or cord without the loop showing.
Curator’s note
Sourced from the Bourges region in central France, this snake pendant is crafted in antique mesh chain and has a long, straight design, lending a dramatic look to the pendant when worn on the neck. Snakes have carried important symbolic importance for centuries but became commercially popular in the Victorian era when Queen Victoria herself wore several serpentine pieces. Snake pieces are usually rings, bracelets or chain-style necklaces. The long, vertical style of this piece is highly unusual. The tubular mesh chain is also collectable in its own right and is used effectively here to render the snake’s flexible body.
Details
Date: Victorian - Circa 1850-1880
Weight and size: 16cm long, 5.6 grams
Condition: This pendant is made of gilt metal or pinchbeck, which is a yellow alloy used up until the mid-19th century that imitates gold. There is age-related patina and wear to the mesh but the snake’s head is still bright and buttery. The eyes are bright green and the general condition is good.
A long, gold tone mesh chain snake pendant with a well-moulded head part, open mouth and bright green/emerald glass/paste eyes. The snake has a semi-open mouth and a fixed loop under the head, so the snake can be worn on a chain or cord without the loop showing.
Curator’s note
Sourced from the Bourges region in central France, this snake pendant is crafted in antique mesh chain and has a long, straight design, lending a dramatic look to the pendant when worn on the neck. Snakes have carried important symbolic importance for centuries but became commercially popular in the Victorian era when Queen Victoria herself wore several serpentine pieces. Snake pieces are usually rings, bracelets or chain-style necklaces. The long, vertical style of this piece is highly unusual. The tubular mesh chain is also collectable in its own right and is used effectively here to render the snake’s flexible body.
Details
Date: Victorian - Circa 1850-1880
Weight and size: 16cm long, 5.6 grams
Condition: This pendant is made of gilt metal or pinchbeck, which is a yellow alloy used up until the mid-19th century that imitates gold. There is age-related patina and wear to the mesh but the snake’s head is still bright and buttery. The eyes are bright green and the general condition is good.
