Museums are filled with jewels from bygone eras for visitors to admire. But Lalaounis' necklace presents a way to enjoy ancient styles outside of the display case.
The 18-carat yellow gold necklace in «Archaeological Revival» style. It was created around 1965 by the founder of the company, the Greek jeweller Elias Lalaounis. It was part of his «Classical and Hellenistic» collection.
In the 1950s, Lalaounis began to revive old and forgotten techniques to redesign museum objects from ancient Greece. Such as granulation, filigree, hand weaving and hand forging.
«Lalaounis was a master of reviving ancient techniques and drew inspiration from the classical period of Greek art and culture». As Amy Burton, the creative director of Hancocks, a London-based antique jewellery sales company, explains.
«This necklace is a perfect example of the “Archaeological Revival” style. It is a piece of jewelry that transcends time and style. It still combines ancient inspiration, intricate craftsmanship and a touch of Hollywood glamour.».
The necklace pays tribute to the greatness of ancient Greece. As the British jeweller explained, with symbolic motifs visible throughout the piece.
Its handmade chain holds round discs with floral wire mesh. From each disc hangs alternating charms with a bull's head and acorns.
While these elements each have their own beauty, they all have a deeper meaning. It is associated with ancient Greece, where the motifs of Greek gods, plants and animals were prevalent.
The bull's head and acorn charms were meant to evoke strength, endurance and the natural world.
The piece has a rich history in addition to its deep meaning. With Hollywood star, diplomat and fine jewellery collector Shirley Temple modeling it.
The Lalaounis Archaeological Revival-style necklace is available through the Hancocks London website, where it is listed at £14,500, or approximately $19,430.
The Lalaounis brand continues to create contemporary jewellery that reflects ancient Greece. Led by the four daughters of Elias Lalaounis, Ekaterini, Demeter, Maria and Ioanna, who took over their father's brand in 1998.
Source: nationaljeweler.com
