ANCIENT GREEK COIN PENDANT FEATURING BUST OF PRANCING RAMPANT HORSE

IN 14KY GOLD 

480 - 450 B.C.

Bold and breath-taking, this cast solid filigree design custom pendant setting handsomely showcases a stunning, GENUINE ancient Greek silver coin depicting the forepart of a prancing rampant horse.  The immaculate detail and rare preservation proudly displays the finest artwork of Classic Greece.  The ancient silver has a wonderful luster beneath its darkened patina which wonderfully brings out the detail of the horse with its forepaws raised.  The coin is a silver hemidrachm and was minted in Thessaly from 480 - 450 B.C..  The pendant is not meant to be worn on either side but the other side of the coin is visible showing a youth restraining a bull.  The coin's theme refers to an ancient Greek game called TAUROKATHAPSIA, similar to modern rodeo bull wrestling.  A youth would ride out on a horse along a bull and leap from the horse, grasping the bull by the horns and wrestling the bull over to the ground.  Each side of the coin depicts both aspects of this game with the better side shown of the galloping horse. 

I get many requests for equestrian-themed coins and this is one of the more beautiful and artistic I have used.  Its direct link with ancient horsemanship competitions make it a perfect piece for anyone that loves horses or is involved with equestrian competition. 

The custom-made, high polished 14K yellow gold pendant setting contrasts well with the ancient silver.  With its large bail, this pendant can easily fit on wide Omega chains as well as a host of other style large necklaces.  This is one piece that will be the talk of any gathering where it is worn.  Certainly, you wouldn't have to worry about someone else showing up with one like it!  A one-of-a-kind masterpiece of modern jewelry craftsmanship and authentic ancient Greek art featuring a beautiful horse!

In ancient Greek times, the lowlands of Thessaly became the home of baronial families, such as the Aleuads of Larissa or the Scopads of Crannon.  These baronial families organized a federation across the Thessaly region, later went on to control the Amphictyonic League in northern Greece.  The Thessalians were renowned for their cavalry.

During the Greco-Persian Wars the Aleuads joined the Persians.  In the Peloponnesian War the Thessalians tended to side with Athens and usually prevented Spartan troops from crossing through their territory with the exception of the army of Brasidas.  In the 4th century BC Thessaly became dependent on Macedon and many served in its military. 

Overall diameter is 22 mm.

Add a gold chain to make this piece ready to wear!  click here to see the gold chains

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE GREEK COIN JEWELRY FOR SALE

1295