Greek Tanagraia Petit Sterling Silver Cupid Medallion
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm) · Unknown Greek Artisan workshop; the inscription 'Tanagraia' refers to the Tanagra region of Greece or a specific workshop name specializing in Hellenic motifs. These are often produced by independent silversmiths in Athens or Ioannina, known for reviving ancient Greek designs.
Pattern: Tanagraia Hellenic Revival; based on the 'Tanagra' style common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, though the medallion itself is likely a modern souvenir or mid-century homage.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm)
Maker
Unknown Greek Artisan workshop; the inscription 'Tanagraia' refers to the Tanagra region of Greece or a specific workshop name specializing in Hellenic motifs. These are often produced by independent silversmiths in Athens or Ioannina, known for reviving ancient Greek designs.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity typical for modern Greek export) or potentially 950 High Grade Silver. It is solid silver without base metal plating.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 1.5 cm to 2.0 cm (approx. 0.6 to 0.8 inches). Estimated weight is approximately 2 to 4 grams. It is a 'petit' charm size suitable for a bracelet or light necklace.
Description
This charming Greek sterling silver medallion features a whimsical depiction of Cupid (Eros) taking aim with his bow. The piece is rendered in a soft, antiqued finish that highlights the recessed text. The word 'Tanagraia' connects the piece to the elegant tradition of Tanagra art, while the 'Cheiropoiito' stamp serves as a proud marker of Greek artisanal craftsmanship. It is a quintessential example of wearable Greek heritage art, designed to be lightweight and symbolic.
Key Features
The Greek 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Handmade) stamp is the most diagnostic feature of Greek production. The integration of Cupid with a Tanagran-referenced brand name combines mythology with regional pride.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity typical for modern Greek export) or potentially 950 High Grade Silver. It is solid silver without base metal plating.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and brushed finish. The decoration features a low-relief (bas-relief) stamped profile of Eros/Cupid with a bow. Surrounding the figure is Greek text: 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' (Tanagraia) and 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Cheiropoiito), which means 'Handmade'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The front contains the stamped words 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' and 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ'. Purity marks (925 or a Greek state hallmark) are likely located on the reverse or the rim which are not visible in the image.
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast with hand-applied finishing. The integral loop (bail) appears to be part of the original cast or stamped form, later drilled or punched. The term 'Handmade' in this context generally refers to the assembly and hand-finishing/polishing rather than hand-carving the silver itself.
Functional Features
Single suspension eyelet (bail) at the 3 o'clock position (based on current orientation), intended for a jump ring to attach to a chain or charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; item is a flat medallion pendant meant for suspension.
Craftsmanship Details
Moderate quality. The stamping is clear and legible. The edges are smooth, indicating careful finishing after the piece was removed from the mold or die. It is a commercial-grade artisanal product.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of Greek characters and the specific vocabulary ('Tanagraia' and 'Cheiropoiito') are consistent with authentic Greek silver souvenirs. The oxidation in the letters is a standard technique for these pieces to ensure legibility.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece, likely Athens or a tourist-centric Greek island workshop. Greece has a long-standing tradition of 'Handmade' stamped silver aimed at the souvenir and artisanal markets.
Era & Period
Modern Hellenic Revival (c. 1950-Present). The style mimics the 'Tanagra' figurines of ancient Greece but the font and stamping technique are contemporary.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–2000. The wear patterns and font choice suggest a piece from the latter half of the 20th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Tourist Art' movement of Greece, where ancient motifs are miniaturized into silver jewelry to facilitate the global export of Greek culture and mythology.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The piece shows light surface scratches and minor tarnish consistent with being worn as a charm. The suspension hole shows slight wear from a previous jump ring. No structural cracks or significant dents.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is based on silver weight and its appeal as a collectible souvenir rather than a high-art antique.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Use a silver polishing cloth gently on the raised Cupid figure to create a 'bright' contrast against the dark oxidized lettering. Avoid liquid silver dips which may remove the blackened oxidation in the letters.
Similar Pieces
Ilias Lalaounis or Zolotas pieces (high-end Greek alternatives), or generic 'Evil Eye' silver charms. High-end alternatives would have more intricate 18k gold accents and deeper hallmarks.
Interesting Facts
Tanagra figurines were world-famous Greek terracotta statues from the 4th century BC. This medallion uses that famous name to evoke a sense of 'ancient quality' despite being a modern silver charm.