Modern Greek Sterling Silver Eros / Cupid Medallion Charm
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion) · Unknown Greek workshop; the inscription 'Χειροποίητο' indicates a handmade product from an artisanal workshop rather than a large industrial factory.
Pattern: Greek Folk / Antiquity Revival; featuring the 'Tanagraia' stylistic influence referencing Hellenistic Tanagra figurines.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Unknown Greek workshop; the inscription 'Χειροποίητο' indicates a handmade product from an artisanal workshop rather than a large industrial factory.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.900-950). Solid metal construction without plating.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 2.5-3.0 cm (roughly the size of a US Quarter). Approximate weight 5-8 grams.
Description
A charming handmade Greek silver medallion depicting a winged Eros in mid-flight with a bow. The piece is bordered by the words 'Tanagraia' and 'Cheiropoiito' (Handmade) in a modern Greek font. It captures the essence of Hellenistic art in a wearable, portable format, likely sold as a high-quality souvenir or artisanal jewelry piece in the Greek islands or Athens.
Key Features
Greek inscription 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ', classical Eros iconography, and the specific reference to 'Tanagraia' (associated with the ancient city of Tanagra).
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or high-grade Greek silver (.900-950). Solid metal construction without plating.
Finish & Decoration
Matte/satin brushed finish with raised relief. Decorative elements include a winged Eros (Cupid) with a bow and Greek architectural-style lettering ('ΤΑΝΑΓΡΑΙΑ ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ').
Hallmarks & Stamps
The word 'ΧΕΙΡΟΠΟΙΗΤΟ' (Handmade) is visible as part of the decorative stamp. Purity marks (e.g., 925) are likely on the reverse or near the bale loop, though obscured in the image.
Construction Details
Die-struck or cast from a hand-carved master mold. The integral loop is part of the original casting or stamped form, designed to hold a jump ring.
Functional Features
Suspension loop for use as a pendant on a chain or a charm on a bracelet. Rounded edges for comfortable wear against the skin.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a medallion; the 'grip' is the small pierced suspension lug on the right side.
Craftsmanship Details
Evident 'hand-touched' quality. The strike of the letters is slightly irregular, confirming the 'handmade' claim. The relief of the Eros figure is well-proportioned despite the surface wear.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Greek font and the specific term for handmade items. The wear pattern suggests genuine silver rather than a base metal alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Greece (likely Athens or Ioannina, the latter being famous for silver work). Greek silversmithing tradition often emphasizes hand-finishing over high-mirror polishes.
Era & Period
Mid-to-late 20th Century (c. 1960-1990). This represents the 'Tourist Era' of Greek silver production, where classical motifs were popularized for international visitors.
Age Estimate
Latter half of the 20th century, approximately 1970s or 1980s based on the font style and finishing techniques.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Hellenic revival in jewelry, where Greece leveraged its ancient history to build a robust artisanal export and tourism market in the post-WWII era.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Significant surface scratching and minor spotting (oxidation) consistent with use. Some wear to the detail of the wings; tarnish is present in the recessed areas.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is based primarily on silver weight and decorative appeal rather than maker prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth. Avoid liquid 'dips' which can strip the intentional oxidation from the recessed lettering. Store in a cool, dry place away from rubber/latex.
Similar Pieces
Lalaounis or Zolotas pieces (much higher end), or standard 1970s 'Greek Key' silver tourist jewelry which is usually more mass-produced and less 'handmade' in appearance.
Interesting Facts
The term 'Tanagraia' refers to the Tanagra figurines—terracotta Greek statues that were widely collected in the late 19th century and became a symbol of feminine grace and Hellenic beauty.