Greek Souvenir Sterling Silver Cupid Pendant by Lalaounis or Fanourakis style
Jewelry - Pendant/Charm · Unknown Greek Workshop. The inscription 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ' (Handmade) and 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' (Tanagraia) suggests a studio specializing in Neo-Hellenic or Archaeological Revival styles, common in Athens-based workshops like those found in the Plaka district.
Pattern: Tanagraia (Tanagra) Archaeological Revival Collection. These pieces are inspired by the Hellenistic terracotta figurines and classical Greek mythology found in the Tanagra region.
Type
Jewelry - Pendant/Charm
Maker
Unknown Greek Workshop. The inscription 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ' (Handmade) and 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' (Tanagraia) suggests a studio specializing in Neo-Hellenic or Archaeological Revival styles, common in Athens-based workshops like those found in the Plaka district.
Material
Likely .925 Sterling Silver or .950 Silver. Common for Greek artisan silver of the 20th century. Total metal weight is estimated at 5-10 grams.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 25mm to 30mm (roughly the size of a US Quarter). Approximate weight of 6-8 grams of silver.
Description
A charming Greek silver medallion featuring Eros (Cupid) aiming his bow. The piece is designed to look like an ancient coin or an archaeological find, with Greek text identifying it as a handmade 'Tanagraia' piece—referencing the ancient Greek town of Tanagra, famous for its artistic clay figures.
Key Features
Distinctive Greek text; Cupid motif with bow; integrated suspension loop; matte 'coin' finish.
Material & Composition
Likely .925 Sterling Silver or .950 Silver. Common for Greek artisan silver of the 20th century. Total metal weight is estimated at 5-10 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Satin matte finish with recessed oxidation to highlight the engraving. Features a central relief of Cupid (Eros) with a bow, surrounded by Greek lettering. The style is 'Archaic' or 'Neoclassical Revival'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The front bears the Greek words 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' (Tanagraia) and 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ' (Handmade). Purity marks (925) and maker's marks are likely located on the reverse side or the bale rim.
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast disk with integrated suspension loop. The surface shows evidence of hand-finishing to create a 'coin-like' ancient aesthetic.
Functional Features
Perforated suspension lug/loop at the 3 o'clock position (as oriented in photo) for attachment to a necklace chain or charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - integrated silver suspension loop.
Craftsmanship Details
Artisanal quality; the lettering is cleanly executed and the central figure shows good anatomical proportion for a tourist-market medallion.
Authentication Indicators
The Greek spelling of 'Handmade' (ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ) is a standard indicator for silver produced in Greece for the tourist and export market. The font style is consistent with 20th-century revivals.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece, likely Athens. Greek silversmithing is characterized by high-purity silver and a focus on mythological and archaeological themes.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (c. 1960-1990). Part of the 'Greek Tourism Gold/Silver Age' where workshops recreated classical motifs for the international market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s. The typography and 'handmade' stamp are consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century Greek artisan exports.
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern Greek effort to reclaim and monetize classical heritage through high-quality decorative arts during the post-war tourism boom.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Visible surface scratches and minor edge nicks consistent with being worn on a chain. Moderate tarnish in the recessed areas (desirable for the 'antique' look).
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Factors include hallmark verification and whether a specific noted maker (like Lalaounis) can be identified on the reverse.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid silver dips which will remove the black oxidation in the lettering that provides the piece's character and legibility.
Similar Pieces
Ilias Lalaounis Cupid pendants (higher luxury tier), Zolotas sculptural jewelry, or generic Athenian 'Plaka' silver souvenir medallions.
Interesting Facts
Tanagra figurines were world-famous in the late 19th century, sparking a 'Tanagromania' among collectors which led silversmiths to create jewelry lines inspired by these elegant classical figures.