A remarkable amber pendant from the Elizabethan period, adorned with a reverse-carved depiction of Queen Elizabeth I, is poised to achieve an astonishing price at an upcoming Sotheby's auction in London. This artifact, which commanded a modest sum of approximately $7,400 at a previous sale by Lyon & Turnbull in November, is now projected to fetch between $132,000 and $199,000, marking an extraordinary surge in its market worth. Its historical significance and unique craftsmanship are drawing considerable interest from collectors and experts alike, highlighting the enduring allure of period jewelry.
The pendant, dating back to around 1600, initially changed hands for a relatively low price at an Edinburgh auction house last November. However, its true value has since been recognized, leading to its inclusion in Sotheby's 'Master Sculpture From Four Millennia' sale on July 1st. The dramatic increase in its estimated price reflects the rarity and historical importance of such an intact Elizabethan piece. Experts anticipate that the final sale price could even exceed these already high estimates.
This distinctive piece boasts a rich lineage, having been part of the collection of John Malcolm, 1st Baron Malcolm of Poltalloch, a prominent Scottish military figure and Member of Parliament. It remained within his descendants' possession until the Lyon & Turnbull auction. Its historical significance was further cemented by its exhibition at the Burlington Fine Arts Club in London back in 1879, indicating its long-standing recognition as a valuable artifact.
Crafted by either Hans Klingenberg or Georg Schreiber, German amber artisans active in Königsberg during the early 17th century, the pendant showcases a yellow amber base. Embedded within it is a cameo, believed to be fashioned from white amber or a tin-rich alloy, faithfully reproducing a portrait of Elizabeth I. Intriguingly, the amber itself is thought to possess a subtle magnifying property, a remarkable feature given that magnifying glasses were not widely developed until much later in 1691. Further enhancing its design are gilt accents, delicate painted foil work, and an 18th-century setting. Measuring 41 mm in width, the piece also bears a Latin inscription that translates to a dedication to Elizabeth as the Queen of England, France, Ireland, and Virginia, and Defender of the Faith. The inclusion of 'Virginia' is particularly noteworthy, as it was the name of England's initial American colony, named in honor of the Virgin Queen, and its appearance on surviving Elizabethan items is exceedingly rare.
Chloë Woodmansterne, founder of Aril Jewels, a company known for its designs inspired by Elizabethan motifs, underscored the exceptional rarity of this well-preserved piece of jewelry. She noted that finding Elizabethan era jewelry in such a pristine state is extraordinary, almost miraculous. Woodmansterne predicts intense bidding for the pendant, suggesting it could easily surpass £200,000 due to its unique historical and artistic merit.