Gold earrings
Unknown Artist
4th–3rd century BCE
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diam.: 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
Classification
Gold and Silver
Culture & Period
Etruscan · Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase by subscription, 1895
Accession Number
95.15.188, .189
Art Historical Context
These exquisite gold earrings, crafted by an unknown Etruscan artisan in the 4th–3rd century BCE, exemplify masterful jewelry-making of ancient Italy's Etruscan civilization. Measuring just 1 7/8 inches (4.8 cm) in, these delicate hoops belong to the Classical period, a time when Etruscan culture flourished before Roman dominance. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through a 1895 purchase subscription, they now grace the Greek and Roman Art, showcasing the era's opulent personal adornments. Etruscan goldsmiths were renowned for their technical prowess, particularly techniques like gra...