This beautifully executed stickpin features a precious coral sculpture of Demeter.
Demeter was the Ancient Greek goddess of harvest and agriculture, and therefore one of the most important deities in Ancient Greek society. She was also associated with health, birth, and marriage. Her daughter Persephone also gave her a link to the underworld.
In one of the most famous Greek myths, Persephone gets abducted by Hades, the god of the Underworld, who is madly in love with her. Demeter searches everywhere on earth for her daughter, neglecting her duties and plunging the world into a continuous cycle where nothing grows, causing famine and death. Zeus has to resort to ask Hades to return Persephone, but because she had already eaten food from the Underworld, she cannot stay on earth forever. Therefore, she divides her time between her mother and -by now- husband, explaining the seasonal cycle, as Demeter does not let plants grow while Persephone is with Hades.
This pin most probably was used as a cravat pin in the past. A cravat is a neck scarf, often made from silk, which is the predecessor of our modern necktie. It was often worn by noble gents in the 18th and 19th Century, with a pin at its center. This small Demeter not only helped make it sit securely, but also served as an intriguing conversation piece.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: pin length: 95 mm
Demeter 36 x 10 x 8 mm.
Weight: 4.22 grams.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1830s.
Material: Precious coral on a silver gilded pin.
Condition: This pin is in good antique condition, with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.