Ca. 400 BC. A stunning pair of gold earrings. The elegant design of each hollow boat-shaped element tapers to a thin plain earwire, which is secured with a hook and eye closure. Boat-shaped earrings were a popular style of jewelry during the Hellenistic period, as they allowed for the incorporation of maritime themes into wearable art. The use of a boat shape in the design of these earrings evokes the image of a ship sailing on the open sea, and serves as a testament to the importance of seafaring and maritime culture in the Hellenistic world.Size: L:15.3-15.4mm / W:15.1-16.3mm ; 0.59-0.6gProvenance: Private London collection; British art market 1990s.