Classical Chariot Scene Four-Strand Necklace/Bracelet Clasp
Jewelry Hook/Clasp component · Unknown artisan; likely a Mediterranean or Southern European workshop specializing in Neo-Classical or Grand Tour style souvenir jewelry.
Pattern: Quadriga Chariot Race motif; a common classical revival design not belonging to a specific trade-marked collection.
Type
Jewelry Hook/Clasp component
Maker
Unknown artisan; likely a Mediterranean or Southern European workshop specializing in Neo-Classical or Grand Tour style souvenir jewelry.
Material
Likely low-grade silver (800 or 835 fineness) or silver-plated base metal; requires acid testing to confirm silver content.
Dimensions
Estimated at 3cm in height and 2cm in width; weight approximately 5-8 grams.
Description
An oval-shaped jewelry clasp featuring a highly textured relief of a chariot racer. The piece is designed to anchor multiple strands of a necklace or bracelet, as evidenced by the side-mounted eyelets. The darkened recesses of the casting emphasize the movement of the horses, though the level of detail suggests mass-production rather than fine silversmithing.
Key Features
Four-strand capacity, classical Greek/Roman iconography, heavily oxidized surface for aged aesthetic.
Material & Composition
Likely low-grade silver (800 or 835 fineness) or silver-plated base metal; requires acid testing to confirm silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with cast relief; featuring a Roman-style chariot (Quadriga) racing motif in a pseudo-Bas-relief style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are clearly visible on the upper surface; inspection of the reverse or inner tongue of the clasp is required for purity marks.
Construction Details
Rough-cast construction; four soldered attachment rings on one side and two on the other, indicating a multi-strand jewelry component.
Functional Features
Multi-strand box clasp or box-slide mechanism; integrated loops for threading multiple rows of pearls or beads.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Functional loops for stringing beads; cast as part of the main body.
Craftsmanship Details
Lower-tier craftsmanship; visible casting grain and asymmetrical loop placement indicate a functional, workshop-produced piece rather than high-end jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
The porous surface texture is indicative of a secondary casting; the lack of crisp detail in the horses' legs suggests a mid-market manufacturing origin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or Greece; manufactured using sand-casting or lost-wax casting techniques typical of regional tourist markets.
Era & Period
Late 19th to Mid-20th Century; Neo-Classical Revival style inspired by Roman antiquity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920–1960; based on the casting quality and the style of the jump rings.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Grand Tour' aesthetic that remained popular into the 20th century, where travelers collected jewelry inspired by classical ruins.
Condition Notes
Good; showing significant surface wear and 'pitting' consistent with cast base metal or low-grade silver. Heavy tarnish (intentional or natural) is present.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD; depending on confirmed metal content and whether it is a single component or part of a complete necklace.
Care & Maintenance
Light cleaning with a soft cloth; avoid liquid dips which would remove the intentional dark oxidation in the recessed areas.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to '800' silver cameos or intaglios; however, this is a cast metal version rather than carved stone.
Interesting Facts
The Quadriga motif, representing a chariot drawn by four horses, was a symbol of victory and strength in ancient Olympic games and Roman triumphs.