Art Institute of Chicago

Fifteen Links Mounted as a Necklace

Italian

Date

c. 1550–c. 1600

Medium

Gold, enamel, diamonds, and pearls

Culture

Italy

Department

Applied Arts of Europe

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

The symmetrical, openwork scrolls on eight links of this chain, or necklace, are likely based on engraving patterns that circulated among goldsmiths. As evidenced by countless Renaissance portraits, richly patterned chains like this example were integral embellishments to costly costume. Draped across the bust of a man or a woman and sometimes used to suspend a pendant, chains were an undeniable indication of wealth and status.

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