Getty Museum

Pair of Hoop Earrings with Ibex Head Finials

Date

225–175 B.C.

Medium

Gold

Culture

Greek

Department

Jewelry

Institution

Getty Museum

Hoops with finials in the form of animal heads were one of the most popular Hellenistic earring types. This pair and its [companion set](http://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/19410/unknown-maker-pair-of-hoop-earrings-with-ibex-head-finials-greek-225-175-bc/), however, are remarkable for the quality of their craftsmanship. Gold wire was wrapped around a gold core to make the tapered hoop; catch loops were attached under the heads to secure the hoop ends. The tiny, very detailed antelope heads were created by fusing together two repoussé sheet gold halves. The ears and horns were separately fashioned of sheet gold and beaded wire; the eyes are likely to have been inlaid with precious stones, now missing. This pair of earrings is part of the Ensemble of Ptolemaic Jewelry (92.AM.8.1-.11).

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