Seal Figure

[Granmaa]

Here is a silver seal imported into London in 1902 by Elly Isaac Miller. I'd be interested to know if the figure is possibly a character from Classical mythology. She's holding a branch.

Miles


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[nigel le sueur]

Hi Miles

l can think of four which held a branch in their hand, but not sure if they match, Nike (victory) held a palm branch, Vignetle (agriculture) she had one breast uncovered and held an wheat sheaf in one hand and a cornucopia in the other, Concordia (agreement) she held an olive branch in one hand and a cornucopia in the other the only one l can think which may match is Hestia (hearth and home) who held a branch in her right arm, but l think she was also modestly veiled so not sure if she was topless !!

Nigel
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[Granmaa]

Hi Nigel,

I think Nike is the most likely goddess to make into a seal; however, she is usually depicted with wings. Perhaps the sculptor didn't fancy the challenge!

Miles
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[georgiansilver]

I have seen the 'Four Seasons' figures in silver/porcelain/pottery etc.... and this surely looks like one of them... I wonder if she was part of a set of desk implements? What do you think?
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[Granmaa]

Ahh! That seems very possible; I'll look into it.

Miles
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