The Phoenix Necklace
Designer: Edward Spencer (British, 1872-1938)
Manufacturer: The Artificers' Guild, London
Date: about 1904
Dimensions:
pendant, H: 3 7/8 in. (10 cm);
chain, L: 16 in. (40.6 cm)
Medium: gold, diamonds, and opals
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Purchased with funds given by Helen W. Korman and Barbara Goldberg and with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Druummond Libbey
Object number: 2004.66
Label Text:Until recently, this necklace was only known from a drawing by English Arts and Crafts designer Edward Spencer. The necklace not only displays the exquisite craftsmanship typical of the Arts and Crafts style, but also a design rich in complex symbolism. The circle formed by the chain symbolizes order and spirituality, while the pendant represents earthly desires. Above the Tree of Knowledge, Jormungund, the World Serpent of Norse mythology, binds heaven and earth together. The five diamonds in its crown represent the five senses. At the foot of the tree, the Phoenix rises, reborn, from its fiery nest, escaping earthly life. The butterflies on the chain represent the transition to spiritual life.
On view
In Collection(s)