Cartier
Vintage 'Hercules Knot' Diamond Earrings in 18ct Gold
A vintage pair of Hercules knot earrings in 18ct yellow gold by Cartier Paris, circa 1940s. Designed as two entwined tubogas ropes, each earclip is set with two circular brilliant cut diamonds, bezel set in platinum. They secure to the reverse with omega clip fittings and are suitable for both pierced and unpierced ears.
£25,000.00
Information
Maker
Cartier
Origin
Paris
Period
1900-1940, 1940-1980
Period
circa 1940s
Gemstone
4 x round brilliant cut diamonds, estimated total weight 0.28ct
Setting
18ct yellow gold, signed Cartier Paris, numbered and French assay marks
Dimensions
Length: 3.2cm/1.2"
Width: 1.5cm/0.5"
Weight Description
25.3 grams
REF
131054
Director’s Notes
The Hercules knot, also known as the reef knot, is a motif whose symbolism is inseparable from its form. As a binding knot, it brings two ends together in a single fastening, giving the design its natural associations with unity and strength. Through its connection with Hercules, and particularly the tradition of the Nemean lion skin fastened across his chest, the motif also came to carry connotations of strength and protection. In Roman marriage ritual, the ‘nodus Herculaneus‘ added further associations with union and fertility. Found in Greek and Roman art, it is a motif that has endured not simply for its beauty, but for the richness of meaning contained within its form.
