Modern Greek Souvenir Sterling Silver Eros Charm or Pendant
Jewellery (Pendant, Charm, or Medallion) · Unidentified Greek silversmith or manufacturer; typically sold in tourist locations or specialty shops near archaeological sites like Tanagra.
Pattern: Classical Revival/Tourist Souvenir featuring the 'Tanagra' Archer (Eros/Cupid) motif.
Type
Jewellery (Pendant, Charm, or Medallion)
Maker
Unidentified Greek silversmith or manufacturer; typically sold in tourist locations or specialty shops near archaeological sites like Tanagra.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 900 silver, common for Greek silver souvenirs. Base metal is silver throughout; no evidence of plating.
Dimensions
Approximately 2.5 - 3 cm in diameter; estimated weight 4-7 grams. Size is typical for a large charm or small pendant medallion.
Description
A circular silver medallion featuring a stylized winged archer, identified by the inscription as a 'Tanagra Handmade' piece. The design carries a Hellenistic aesthetic, often associated with the famous Tanagra figurines. The item has a slightly domed profile and a soft, worn patina, indicating it was likely worn as a daily accessory. It represents a common but charming example of Greek heritage silver.
Key Features
Greek inscription 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ', Eros figure with bow, integral attachment eyelet, and a coin-like circular form.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or 900 silver, common for Greek silver souvenirs. Base metal is silver throughout; no evidence of plating.
Finish & Decoration
Matte/satin finish with raised relief decoration. Features a winged Eros (Cupid) with a bow. Greek inscription 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΑ' (Tanagraia Cheiropoicta) meaning 'Tanagra Handmade'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Indistinguishable in the image. Usually stamped on the reverse with '925' and a Greek workshop code (e.g., ΩΜ34).
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or cast from a mold to replicate ancient coin or relief styles, then finished by hand. Note the integral loop for a jump ring.
Functional Features
Perforated suspension loop at the 2 o'clock position (as oriented) for attachment to a necklace chain or charm bracelet.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable for this form, though the suspension loop acts as the primary attachment point.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial quality; the 'Handmade' claim usually refers to hand-finishing or hand-casting rather than being entirely hand-wrought from sheet silver.
Authentication Indicators
The style of the inscription and the specific 'Tanagraia' branding are consistent with authentic Greek tourist silver. Patina is consistent with silver rather than silver-plate.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece, likely produced in workshops associated with Tanagra or Athens. Established Greek tradition of 'Handmade' (Cheiropoieta) silver for the tourism market.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Late 20th Century (c. 1970-present). The style mimics Hellenistic art but the execution is modern.
Age Estimate
c. 1980 - 2010. The typeface and finish are consistent with late 20th-century Greek commercial silver production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Greek tourism boom of the late 20th century and the commercialization of Classical Greek iconography for wearable art.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Shows moderate surface wear and light scratches consistent with being worn. Some minor darkening/tarnish in the recessed areas (sulfide deposits). No major dents or structural breaks.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is based primarily on silver weight and souvenir decorative appeal rather than high antique rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Use a silver polishing cloth for the raised surfaces but leave tarnish in the recesses to maintain the relief's definition. Store in a dry place.
Similar Pieces
Ilias Lalaounis or Zolotas pieces (higher end, more intricate); generic Greek 'Evil Eye' charms; Athenian owl coin replicas.
Interesting Facts
Tanagra is famous for prehistoric and classical terracotta 'Tanagra figurines.' Modern silver pieces like this use the name to capitalize on the region's ancient artistic reputation.