Modern Greek Sterling Silver Eros Pendant Medal
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal) · Unknown Greek silversmith. The inscription 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Cheiropoieto) indicates a boutique workshop or artisanal production rather than a mass-market international brand.
Pattern: Classical Revival/Tourist Art. It features Eros (Cupid) and the text 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' referencing Tanagra figurines.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Unknown Greek silversmith. The inscription 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Cheiropoieto) indicates a boutique workshop or artisanal production rather than a mass-market international brand.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.950). It appears to be solid precious metal with no visible base metal bleeding.
Dimensions
Approximately 2.5 - 3.0 cm in diameter; estimated weight 5-8 grams. It is a standard size for a neck pendant or large charm.
Description
A circular silver charm or pendant featuring a playful depiction of the god Eros (Cupid) with a bow. The piece is inscribed in Greek with 'ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ' (Tanagraia) and 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Handmade). It serves as a commemorative piece of wearable art, evoking the ancient Tanagra terracotta figurines famous for their grace and delicacy.
Key Features
Greek inscriptions; embossed Eros figure; integrated bale; 'Handmade' claim; Classical Greek motif in a modern silver format.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.950). It appears to be solid precious metal with no visible base metal bleeding.
Finish & Decoration
Satin-matte brushed finish with embossed (repoussé) central figure and raised relief Greek lettering. The text arcs around the border in a classic medal style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are visible on the face. Typically, Greek silver of this type would be stamped '925' or have a Hellenic Silver workshop mark on the reverse or the bale loop. The word 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Handmade) is part of the design.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or cast and then hand-finished. The integral loop (bale attachment) is cast as part of the circular body, indicating a modern manufacturing process.
Functional Features
Small circular aperture (eyelet) at the top for attachment to a jump ring or neck chain. Designed for daily wear.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple integrated eyelet; no ornate grip or secondary handle mechanisms.
Craftsmanship Details
Consistent relief height; legible text; slightly uneven eyelet suggests an artisanal workshop rather than high-precision industrial stamping.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Greek typography; silver oxidation patterns; workshop terminology ('Handmade' in Greek script). Presence of a 925 stamp on the back would confirm fineness.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece (likely Athens or a silver-working center like Ioannina). Traditional Greek silversmithing techniques modernised for the tourist and exports market.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (Modernist Folk Revival). It draws inspiration from Hellenistic Greek art (3rd Century BC) but the typography and finishing are modern.
Age Estimate
c. 1970–1990. The style of the lettering and the specific matte finish are characteristic of late 20th-century Greek jewelry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Hellenic Revival' in jewelry design, where 20th-century Greek smiths reproduced archeological motifs to promote national heritage and provide souvenirs for the growing tourism industry.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Significant surface tarnish (patina) is visible, along with minor scratches consistent with age and wear. No structural cracks or significant deformation.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $55.00 USD. Value is primarily based on silver content and its appeal as a decorative or commemorative item rather than high-end brand name.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth to restore highlights on Eros and the text. Avoid chemical dips which can strip the pleasing contrast in the recesses. Store in a cool, dry place.
Similar Pieces
Greek silver coins set in frames; Zolotas or Lalaounis pendants (though those are usually much higher end/gold); mass-market pewter 'Greek' charms (which lack the luster and weight of this silver piece).
Interesting Facts
The word 'Tanagraia' refers to the ancient city of Tanagra, which was world-famous for small terracotta 'Tanagra figurines.' These were often used as grave goods and were highly sought after during the 19th-century archaeology craze.