Folk Art Pegasus Medallion Charm in Coin Silver
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm for a Beaded Bracelet) · Indeterminate Folk Artisan; likely a regional silversmith or tribal craftsperson specializing in hand-cast amulets.
Pattern: One-of-a-kind Folk Art; Pegasus/Mythological Horse motif.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Charm for a Beaded Bracelet)
Maker
Indeterminate Folk Artisan; likely a regional silversmith or tribal craftsperson specializing in hand-cast amulets.
Material
Low-purity silver/Coin Silver (approx. 80.0% to 90.0% silver) with mixed beads of glass, stone (turquoise-colored), and potentially wooden spacers on a fibrous cord.
Dimensions
Estimated medallion diameter of 15-20mm; estimated weight of medallion 3-5 grams. Overall bracelet length appears to be standard 7-inch wrist size.
Description
This charming piece of folk jewelry features a focal coin-shaped silver medallion. The central motif is a Pegasus, rendered in a primitive, expressive style reminiscent of ancient Macedonian or Celtic coinage. It is part of a larger, eclectic beaded assembly containing turquoise-colored stones and trade beads, suggesting a bohemian or travel-souvenir origin. The silver has a soft, warm glow characteristic of lower-purity alloys that have been worn against the skin.
Key Features
High-relief Pegasus figure; organic, non-circular perimeter; heavy oxidation (tarnish) used as a design element to emphasize the figure; mixed-media cordage.
Material & Composition
Low-purity silver/Coin Silver (approx. 80.0% to 90.0% silver) with mixed beads of glass, stone (turquoise-colored), and potentially wooden spacers on a fibrous cord.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and hand-rubbed finish; high-relief casting featuring a winged horse (Pegasus). Significant patina in the recessed areas with a matte, work-hardened surface on the raised highlights.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Pieces of this nature are often 'marked by the hand' rather than by official assay offices, common in ethnographic or artisan jewelry.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast or sand-cast medallion. The hole is hand-drilled. The surrounding beads are hand-strung on a multi-strand cord with visible knotting.
Functional Features
Single suspension hole for integration into a charm bracelet; tactile primitive relief for sensory 'worry bead' use.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Jewelry item. Suspension cord shows significant fraying and age-related wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-cast quality with visible porosity from the casting process; intentionally 'crude' to evoke an ancient feel; hand-knotted cordage implies small-batch or individual production.
Authentication Indicators
The irregular edges and 'pitting' in the background of the relief are consistent with artisan sand-casting. The color of the tarnish (brownish-black) suggests a higher copper content common in coin silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Central Asian, Himalayan, or Southwestern US artisan workshop using traditional sand-casting methods.
Era & Period
Contemporary Ethno-Chic/Folk Art (Late 20th Century to Early 21st Century) influenced by ancient Greek coinage motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2000. The wear on the silver and the oxidation of the copper-heavy alloy suggest at least 20-40 years of intermittent use.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Global Nomad' aesthetic of the late 20th century, where mythological symbols from various cultures were blended into personal talismans.
Condition Notes
Good / Fair. The silver medallion shows substantial surface scratches and soft edges from friction. The cord is heavily frayed and near failure. Tarnish is heavy but appropriate for the style.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is based on artistic appeal and 'look' rather than silver weight or maker prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips which would strip the intentional oxidation. Use a soft silver polishing cloth only on the raised Pegasus figure. The cord should be replaced by a jeweler to prevent loss.
Similar Pieces
Ancient Greek Silver Staters (original inspiration); artisan silver charms from brands like Waxing Poetic or Pyrrha (modern commercial equivalents).
Interesting Facts
Pegasus was a popular symbol on ancient Corinthian staters; modern artisans often use 'rubbings' of ancient coins to create molds for this style of 'neo-antique' jewelry.