Circa 1600 European 20ct Gold Diamond and Painted Enamel “Pelican in Her Piety” Pendant with Victorian 9ct Gold Chain

An exceptionally rare devotional jewel dating to the late 16th or early 17th century, depicting the ancient Christian symbol of the Pelican in Her Piety.

According to medieval legend, a mother pelican would pierce her own breast and feed her dying young with her blood, restoring them to life. The image became a powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrifice and redemption, while also representing maternal love, devotion, compassion and selfless protection.

Handcrafted in professionally tested 20ct gold, the pendant portrays the mother pelican with outstretched wings, bending towards her breast as her young gather below. The composition is set with natural table-cut diamonds of remarkably early form, displaying irregular square, rectangular and geometric outlines. Each diamond is held within a raised, closed-back box setting characteristic of Renaissance and early Baroque jewellery.

The pendant is richly decorated on both the front and reverse with painted enamel on gold. Traces of blue, white and red enamel define the pelican’s plumage, body, young and flowing blood. An intricate openwork scroll frame surrounds the scene, giving the jewel the sculptural quality of a miniature devotional artwork.

The pendant has been paired with an antique Victorian rope-twist chain crafted in 9ct gold. Its cylindrical barrel clasp bears a clear “9C” mark. Although the pendant and chain originate from different periods, their warm gold tones and historic craftsmanship complement one another beautifully.

Details

* Date of pendant: Late 16th to early 17th century, circa 1600
* Origin: European
* Pendant material: Professionally tested 20ct gold
* Gemstones: Natural table-cut diamonds
* Enamel: Painted enamel on gold
* Subject: Pelican in Her Piety
* Pendant dimensions: Approximately 2 × 1.2cm
* Pendant thickness: Approximately 5mm
* Chain period: Victorian
* Chain material: 9ct gold
* Hallmark: “9C” on the cylindrical barrel clasp
* Chain length: Approximately 43cm
* Total weight: Approximately 12.91g
* The pendant and chain have been professionally tested

Why You’ll Love It

The Pelican in Her Piety was one of the most moving devotional images of medieval and Renaissance Europe. Beyond its Christian symbolism, it represents a universal story of maternal love—the willingness to give everything to protect those we love.

With its early table-cut diamonds, sculptural goldwork, double-sided painted enamel and extraordinary survival across more than four centuries, this is far more than an antique pendant. It is a miniature historical artwork and an exceptionally rare collector’s jewel.

Condition

The pendant remains in very good antique condition considering its exceptional age. The painted enamel shows natural wear and areas of loss consistent with several centuries of history. These traces of age form part of the jewel’s authentic character and do not diminish the clarity or emotional power of its design.

The Victorian chain is also in good antique condition, with its rope-twist links and cylindrical clasp well preserved.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Shipping

【📦Worldwide shipping from London, UK.】

The necklace will be carefully and securely packaged for delivery. Please contact us before purchasing if you require any additional shipping information.

About SHECH

SHECH LONDON specialises in carefully selected antique and vintage jewellery, chosen for its craftsmanship, history and enduring beauty.