bavarikon4UDescription
This pendant stands out on the one hand due to its complexity and playfulness, and on the other hand the opulence of the materials. The multi-level structure creates depth, allowing you to look in and through it. In the foreground, above a console, is the nomen sacrum "IHS" – the abbreviation for "Jesus". The console and initials are set with table-cut rubies, flanked on the left and right by diamonds in elaborate box settings and surmounted by a gold band with the inscription "GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO" (Glory to God in the highest). Above it, the dove of the Holy Spirit spreads its wings wide. Its sculptural body and wings are covered with white opaque encrusted enamel. Set back somewhat, a smaller floral rosette is attached above the dove and a larger, two-layered rosette adorned with rubies is attached below the console, both with a diamond in the centre. The base plate, on which all this is mounted "free-floating" with spacers, forms the back of the gem. Its open scrollwork ornamentation of C-shaped and S-shaped sweeping curves with flowers and tendrils is enamelled on the front and back and hung with three pearls. Charming details are the sculpted fruit clusters on it and the delicate vineyard snails, the latter being a symbol of the resurrection in Christian art.
This magnificent jewellery was found in the coffin of Countess Palatine Amalia Hedwig of Palatinate-Neuburg (1584-1607), who wore it around her neck on a chain of black agate spindles.