Tanagraia Hand-Modeled Sterling Silver Eros Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion) · Tanagraia (Greek: ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ), a Greek artisan workshop specializing in traditional and neoclassical hand-wrought silver. These workshops are known for preserving ancient Greek motifs in jewelry.
Pattern: Eros (Cupid) Archer Pattern, part of the 'Cheiropoieto' (Handmade) collection. Non-standardized artisanal production.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Tanagraia (Greek: ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ), a Greek artisan workshop specializing in traditional and neoclassical hand-wrought silver. These workshops are known for preserving ancient Greek motifs in jewelry.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.900-950). The base material is solid silver with an oxidized patina. No significant mixed materials; solid metal construction.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 35-40mm (based on hand scale). Estimated weight between 10-15 grams. It follows the size of a large commemorative medal or heavy pendant.
Description
A substantial and charming Greek silver medallion featuring Eros, the god of love. The piece captures a rustic, 'foundry-fresh' aesthetic with thick lines and an antiqued surface that highlights the deep recesses of the engraving. The encircling text serves both as a decorative border and a hallmark of the 'Handmade' quality associated with the Tanagraia label.
Key Features
Bold Greek lettering 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΗ' (Handmade); primitive archer figure; integrated round suspension tab; matte silver finish with deep oxidation.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.900-950). The base material is solid silver with an oxidized patina. No significant mixed materials; solid metal construction.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and brushed finish. The decoration features a hand-chased or cast-then-chased figure of Eros with a bow. Surrounding the figure is the Greek inscription 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΗ' (Tanagraia Handmade) in a stylized font. The style is Neoclassical-Folk.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The front displays functional branding as decoration (ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ/ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΗ). Likely bears a '925' or Greek 'omega' purity mark on the reverse or the rim which is not visible in the prime image.
Construction Details
Likely sand-cast or die-struck with significant secondary hand-tooling. The integral suspension loop (bail) is part of the original casting rather than soldered, indicating a sturdy, single-piece manufacture.
Functional Features
Single integral suspension hole for a chain or leather cord. Flat reverse, suitable for engraving personal messages.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant loop used as the grip/attachment point). The loop shows slight wear-through from a jump ring, indicating use.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished evidenced by the uneven depth of the lettering and the slightly primitive, folk-style rendering of the wings and bow. The texture is intentionally non-industrial.
Authentication Indicators
Correct Greek spelling and nomenclature; consistent surface wear for a silver alloy; artisanal tool marks inside the recessed areas; distinctive 'Tanagraia' branding font.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece, originating from an artisan workshop. 'Tanagraia' traditionally refers to the women of Tanagra or things associated with the ancient Boeotian city known for its terracotta art.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Greek Folk Revival (Late 20th Century). This style draws heavily from Hellenistic motifs and 'Tanagra' ceramic figurines.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1990. The font style and oxidation patterns are consistent with late 20th-century Greek tourist and artisan silver trade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century resurgence of Greek national identity through the production of 'Tourist Art' that maintained high silver standards and celebrated classical mythology.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Presence of 'pocket wear' or surface micro-scratches. Significant oxidation (intended by maker, but darkened by age). Note light pitting on the figure's chest which is characteristic of the casting process.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the appeal of the 'handmade' Greek artisan branding rather than extreme rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid chemical 'dips' which would remove the intentional dark oxidation in the lettering; use a silver polishing cloth only on high-relief areas to maintain contrast.
Similar Pieces
Ilias Lalaounis (higher-end gold/fine silver); Zolotas (more refined neoclassical); standard Greek .925 souvenirs (usually lighter and machine-stamped).
Interesting Facts
The word 'Tanagraia' evokes the famous 'Tanagra' figurines of ancient Greece, which were small, elegant terracotta statues. Modern silversmiths use this name to associate their work with ancient Boeotian craftsmanship.