Ca. 400 BC. A matched pair of gold earrings, featuring a distinctive boat-shaped design that evoked the maritime spirit of the Hellenistic era. Each of these alluring earrings was fashioned into a delicate hollow vessel, which tapered gracefully towards a slender plain earwire that was expertly designed with a hook and eye closure for ease and comfort. The sleek and streamlined silhouette of these earrings imparted an elegant and fluid motion, capturing the dynamic essence of the sea and the freedom of movement it inspired. In the Hellenistic world, earrings were not merely decorative, but also served as symbols of status and identity, as well as expressions of personal taste and style. Boat-shaped earrings, with their elegant and fluid design, were particularly favored by the aristocracy and elite, who sought to display their wealth and sophistication through their choice of jewelry.Size: L:15.8-16.2mm / W:14.3-14.5mm ; 0.81-0.83gProvenance: Private London collection; British art market 1990s.