Bactrian Ornament Statement Earrings

Handcrafted jewelry adaptation in 24 karat gold-plated bronze using traditional Hellenistic techniques. These striking lightweight statement earrings are attached to hammered disks and hang from a ball post. Each piece is cut, hammered, polished, and plated by hand, resulting in a one-of-a-kind work of art. Designed and made in Greece exclusively for the Getty by artist Fotenini Liami.

- Dimensions: 3 inches L x 1 1/2 inches W
- Materials: 24K gold plate, bronze
- Made in Greece
- Item #: SOE1

Geometric openwork decorates an ancient Bactrian gold ornament, which is in the Museum’s antiquities collection and inspired this contemporary jewelry adaptation. Cut from a gold sheet to form asymmetrical volutes, the Getty’s ornament dates from the first century BCE to the first century CE. Splendid metalwork made in Bactria (present-day northern Afghanistan) was renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and intricate designs. 

Metal Mount with Geometrical Ornament
Unknown
Bactrian
100 BCE–CE 50
Gold
4 3/4 × 3 1/4 × 1/16 in.
82.AM.100.2