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LOT 1913
Silver Memento Mori Skull Pomander
17TH CENTURY A.D.
1 /2 in. (25.4 grams, 38 mm).
Hollow-formed with openwork eyes and nasal cavity, hinge beneath the lower jaw which opens to reveal six compartments with internal 'lid' engraved with the names of six fragrances: 'Rosen, Citron, Schlag, Rosmarin, Negeln, and Canel', the other side to contain a sponge soaked in the perfumed oils and spices, a short length of chain suspended from the top of the skull.
ProvenancePrivate collection, UK.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13004-246014.
For a similar example also in silver see: British Museum collection no.1978,1002.162.
FootnotesOriginally a talisman to ward off sickness and noxious odours, this item of jewellery could be worn around the neck or suspended from a belt. The Pomander scent carrier, with chambers for the herbs and spices, was popular in England and on the continent during the 16th and 17th centuries. Intended to protect the wearer from sickness, it was designed to be worn around the neck or waist on a rope by wealthy aristocrats.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
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