Lion Protome Earrings from Capua and Herculaneum

The lion protome earrings from Capua and Herculaneum reproduce the original artefact, catalogue no. 6434 AB of the Superintendency of Taranto, in 18K gold-plated 925 silver.

Called cornucopia earrings because of their shape, they are decorated with a lion protome. Images carved into jewellery often depicted motifs regarded as amulets. The lion was an emblem of strength, royalty, courage and pride.

Characteristics

• Material: 18K Gold plated 925 Silver + emerald green glass paste
• Weight: about 9.8 g
• Dimensions: 1.18 × 0.98 in (3 x 2.5 cm)
• Produced in Italy

Historical Curiosities

The lion has always been considered a symbol of strength, courage and royalty in various cultures around the world.

In ancient Egypt, the lion was associated with the goddess Sekhmet, protector of war and healing.

In Greek mythology, the Nemean lion, an invincible monster, was killed by Heracles during one of his twelve labors, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

In more recent times, the lion has become an emblem of power and nobility, often present in the heraldic coats of arms of various dynasties.

Wearing lion head earrings is not only a statement of style, but also a reference to a historical tradition full of meaning.

Bibliography:
"Splendori. Il lusso negli ornamenti a Ercolano", edited by Francesco Sirano.
"Le collezioni del Museo Nazionale di Napoli", edited by Archivio Fotografico Pedicini.