Antique Greek Meander Yellow Gold and Tortoiseshell Comb

Tortoiseshell hair comb, tiara, topped with an element in yellow gold 18 Kt (hallmark: eagle head) with a Greek meander motif adorned with a fine border of black enamel.

French work, early 19th century, Empire style.

Gross weight: 60.76 g
Height: 10.00 cm
Width: 11.50 cm

Condition: very good condition, micro-scratches on the gold and tortoiseshell parts, and slight oxidation on the gold parts, slightly missing enamel, see photos.

 

This antique comb is adorned with a Greek "meander". The Greek meander (Maiandros) is a motif that has been around since ancient Greece, and can be found on temples, vases, carpets and jewelry from that era, as well as on the productions of the Greek Empire. neo-classical productions productions of the First Empire in the early 19th century, such as this tiara.

The repetition of a meander forms a frieze known as the Greek Key, symbolizing infinity through its repetition. 

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