Panagia

Description

Panagia, jewelled and mother of pearl, Russian, circa 1800

The oval frame in a floral design set with rock crystals imitating diamonds and four large amethysts, the Imperial crown above and pendant beneath set with rock crystals and aquamarines. The icon painted on mother of pearl (rubbed).

Overall length ca. 15cm

It is interesting to note that this type of Panagia closely resembles the portrait badges bestowed by European as well as Russian souverains to their equals or highest-ranking courtiers as a mark of particular esteem. Compare the design by Jean Guien for an imperial portrait badge first published in London in 1710 and then again in 1762 in his “Livre d’Ouvrages de Joüaillerie Inventé et Gravé par Jean Guien, Jouaillr à Londres, Published and Sold by F. Vivares / Oct.r 1762”