Unusual Archeological Revival 15 carat gold and white enamel pendant centred with a bee c.1870.
The bee in Ancient Greece symbolized fertility, health and healing. The insects were even considered servants of the gods, with honey being worshipped for its healing attributes.
The mid to the late c19th movement in producing these Etruscan, Greek, and Roman styles were inspired by the major excavations of the c18th and c19th and feature intricate granulation, filigree, rope work and rich gold often in bold, textured designs with mythological motifs, popularised chiefly by the Italian jewelers Castellani.