Southeastern Europe, Thrace (modern borders in Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey), ca. 1st century BCE to 2nd century CE. A lovely pair of matching silver Hercules knot bracelets - the silver of very high quality (98%) - both presenting thick tubular bangles with attractive intertwining knot designs on the faces with the wires wrapped at each side. Size: 2.75" in diameter (7 cm); decorative faces measure 3.375" W x 1.25" H (8.6 cm x 3.2 cm); weight: 145.1 grams; silver quality: 98%
In ancient Greece, the "Herakles knot" was believed to be the knot form used by Herakles to tie the skin of the Nemean lion around his neck after he slayed the beast fulfilling the first of twelve labors that King Eurystheus gave him. Given this affiliation with the Greek hero known for his mighty strength and courage, this knot was generally regarded as a protective amulet. In addition, it was a fertility symbol, as Herakles had many children. Given this, it was often used to fasten bridal garments.
According to the British Museum, "The marriage-knot or knot of Hercules, a strong knot created by two intertwined ropes, originated as a healing charm in ancient Egypt, but is best known for its use in ancient Greece and Rome as a protective amulet, most notably as a wedding symbol. The symbolism of the knot survived well beyond its religious use, and was a common symbol in medieval and Renaissance love tokens." In addition, according to Roman historian Pliny, the Herakles knot had the ability to cure wounds.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Madame Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s
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#146882
Condition
Normal surface wear commensurate with age. Forms are very strong. Silver has developed a nice age patina. Some areas appear to have been polished.