Pompeii Lion Protome Choker

This choker with lion protomes is inspired by ancient jewellery found at Pompeii. It reproduces the original artefact, catalogue no. 6432 of the Taranto Superintendency. Similar accessories also come from Teano, including an example among the grave goods of another burial, and from Cumae, including inventory no. 126405 in the Archaeological Museum of Naples.

The choker is made of leather with a hook fastening. The same type of fastening appears on a gold necklace of unknown provenance held in the British Museum.

Characteristics

• Material: leather, 18K Gold plated 925 Silver, emerald green glass paste
• Weight: about 15 g
• Length: 16.54 in (42 cm)
• Cord thickness: 0.20 in (0.5 cm)
• Cord colour: Black or Brown
• Artisan product made in Italy

Historical Curiosities

For the ancient Romans, a protome was an artistic representation of the front of an animal, or sometimes a person. Lions, bulls and rams often appeared in ornaments and jewellery, which was chiefly made of gold to show membership of the upper social classes. These animals were often regarded as symbolic or protective motifs. The lion motif symbolises vitality, courage, pride and royalty.

Bibliography:
“Splendori. Il lusso negli ornamenti a Ercolano”, edited by Francesco Sirano.
“La bellezza femminile a Pompei”, edited by Antonio d’Ambrosio.
“Le collezioni del Museo Nazionale di Napoli”, edited by Archivio Fotografico Pedicini.