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Necklace
Antonio Civilotti (Italian, 1798–1870)
Italian
about 1870
Medium/Technique
Glass micromosaic, mounted in gold
Dimensions
Overall: 0.8 x 41 x 6 cm (5/16 x 16 1/8 x 2 3/8 in.)
Other (clasp): 2 cm (13/16 in.)
Other (clasp): 2 cm (13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Caroline Louise Williams French
Accession Number15.231
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Necklaces and neck bands
Antonio Civilotti, the goldsmith who crafted this exquisite necklace, incorporated micromosaic ornaments symbolizing Rome’s imperial past. The central portrait is of Julius Caesar, Rome’s dictator during the mid-first century b.c., and includes a Latin inscription that means "I am the leader." The necklace’s other allusions to Rome’s glorious past include the eagle, the initials SPQR (Senate and Roman people), and the fasces, a bundle of sticks with a double ax that symbolized power and jurisdiction.
DescriptionGold necklace with glass micromosaic ornaments of Rome's imperial past. Central portrait of Julius Caesar includes Latin inscription "I am the Leader."
InscriptionsStamped indistinctly on clasp c777, crossed keys and crown ?
Provenance1915, bequest of Caroline Louisa Williams French (b. 1833 - d. 1914), Boston, to the MFA. (Accession Date: April 1, 1915)