A Gold, Gem-Set and Seed Pearl Double-Headed Eagle Pendant, Morocco, 18th Century

the central pendant featuring a double-headed eagle set with a large pink gemstone in the centre, the wings and tail also decorated with colourful gemstones, detailed enamelling to the reverse, the necklace composed of multiple seed-pearl strands interspersed with colourful gemstones and two cylindrical enamelled beads

In good condition, some ware to enamel, some stones possibly paste or glass replacements, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Suspended on a seed-pearl necklace composed of multiple strands, this double-headed gem-set eagle pendant stands out for its elegance and regal connotations. The eagle is a symbol of power and representations of double-headed eagles have been used in heraldry closely associated with both the Byzantine and Roman Empires. A similar piece is in the Musée des Arts Africains et Océaniens, Paris, and attributed to the seventeenth century (illustrated in Gonzalez 1994, no.147, p.194). Similar pieces are also illustrated in Hasson 1987, p.61, no.78., Paris 1977, no. 371.

A similar necklace was sold in these room on 25 April 2012, lot 655.