An Italian 18/21k gold Etruscan style collier

An Italian 18/21k gold Etruscan style collier

Designed as a hand-forged chain suspending finely granulated Achelous masks, acorns, and drum-form pendants. With corresponding hook and eye clasp. H 9; L 43 cm. Total weight 40.8 g.

Late 19th / early 20th C.

** Provenance
Purchased in Italy in the 1960s.

The bearded mask of the ancient Greek river god Achelous was a popular classical motif, and was used particularly often in Etruscan jewellery. They served as apotropaic amulets to ward off evil and protect their wearers.