Antique Enamel, Diamond and Pearl Suite, Rowlands & Frazer, London, c. 1860
Important Antique Earrings and Pendant Suite. Lyre-shaped pendant and earring set in the original fitted box signed Rowlands & Frazer, London, c. 1860. Considered one of the most important musical instruments in the ancient world according to the museum of London Archeology, the shape of a lyre can be seen as an inspiration for the form of the rose cut diamonds in the pendant of this earring and pendant set. On the verso of the pendant is a well made hinged locket originally meant to hold a sentimental lock of hair. The pendant measures 2 38th inches. The earrings measure 1 3/4th inches.
Indeed the designer of this neo-classic set may very well have been inspired by the examples of Lyres in the collections of local museums. Rowlands & Frazer, located on London's famous Regent Street, began in the early 19th century and had a reputation as fine jewellers.
This set consists of 15K yellow gold, silver, black tracery enamel, rose cut diamonds (44 in the pendant and 36 in the earrings), natural oriental pearls (6 in the pendant and 12 in the earrings), and finally portrait enamel depicting the face of a cherub in each piece.
Cherubs of course were the frequent companions of Aphrodite (Greek) or Venus (Roman). They were the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Love motif jewels were quite popular at this time. An example of romantic jewelry such as this in near perfect condition and in its original box from nearly 165 years ago is extremely difficult to find today.