An important revivalist gold and enamel 'Melos' necklace by Civilotti, the flexible band of woven gold suspending a festooned fringe of stylised amphora drops alternately plain or beautifully decorated with filigree and granulation.The chain suspensions further set with green enamel hearts, blue enamel rosettes and florets, to the S-shaped clasp with wirework embellished terminals.  In original velvet fitted case marked 'C. Civilotti, Pz di Spagna, Roma, N° 93 94 95’.  The original Hellenistic necklace excavated at Melos (330-300 BC) inspired this Civilotti necklace and is now in the British Museum. It was purchased in 1872 from Castellani. Civilotti as well as Castellani and Giuliano made copies of this Hellinistic 'Melos' necklace.The Civilotti family were known as jewelers from the mid-19th century to the end of the century in Rome. Antonio Civilotti was a renowned goldsmith, notorious for his works in the Etruscan revival and neo-renaissance styles, in the manner of Castellani. His relative, Giuseppe Civilotti, was a gem engraver and opened a jewellery shop Piazza di Spagna where he was selling pieces made by Antonio. His store was mentioned in many guides of Rome from the 1850's on. At this time, Rome was one of the most important stop of travellers on the Grand Tour and antique revival jewellery was a sought-after, refined and luxurious souvenir.
 
Reference number:REF75
Price upon Request