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.

Provenance

Private 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.

Literature

For a similar example also in silver see: British Museum collection no.1978,1002.162.

Footnotes

Originally 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.

CONDITION

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LOT 1913