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THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST

Artaxerxes Vessel Earrings

Artaxerxes Vessel Earrings

Regular price £48.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £48.00 GBP
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Ancient Persian luxury, transformed into gold.

Inspired by the exquisite silver vessels of Achaemenid Persia, the Artaxerxes Vessel Earrings transform the radiating forms of ancient court metalwork into wearable treasure.
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DETAILS

HISTORICAL INSPIRATION

Achaemenid Persian luxury metalwork and ceremonial drinking vessels, particularly the 5th-century BC silver phiale associated with Artaxerxes I.

MATERIAL

18ct gold plated stainless steel

PENDANT SIZE

18mm

CARE

To keep your jewellery looking its best, gently wipe with a soft cloth after wear and store separately when not in use.

Avoid abrasive cleaners, polishing compounds and anything that may scratch or unnecessarily wear the plated surface.

DELIVERY & RETURNS

Your Shinar jewellery will arrive carefully packaged and ready to give — or to keep.

UK and international delivery options, costs and estimated delivery times are shown at checkout.

Eligible unworn jewellery may be returned in accordance with our Returns Policy.

OUR GUARANTEE

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THE STORY

The Silver Cup of Artaxerxes

In the royal world of Achaemenid Persia, precious metal vessels were more than functional objects. Gold and silver could communicate wealth, authority and the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Persian court.

Among the surviving objects from this world is a remarkable silver phiale dating to the 5th century BC.

A phiale was a shallow drinking or libation vessel, and this particular example carries an inscription in Old Persian cuneiform referring to Artaxerxes I. The inscription identifies him within the Achaemenid royal lineage and describes the vessel as a silver cup made in his palace.

Objects such as these formed part of a sophisticated visual language of luxury. Their carefully controlled forms, polished surfaces and intricate decoration transformed precious metal into expressions of royal prestige.

The Artaxerxes Vessel Earrings draw upon this tradition of Achaemenid metalwork. Their circular form radiates outward from a central boss, surrounded by repeated petal-like elements that give each pendant the appearance of a miniature worked vessel.

Originally created by Shinar Jewels for the British Museum's Luxury and power: Persia to Greece exhibition, the design celebrates a world in which exquisite objects travelled, influenced neighbouring cultures and became powerful expressions of status and identity.

Ancient Persian luxury, transformed into gold.

WEAR THE PAST.
The Silver Cup of Artaxerxes
ARCHIVE NOTE
SILVER PHIALE OF ARTAXERXES I
Achaemenid Persia · 5th century BC · Silver
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Washington, D.C.
Photograph by Daderot · CC0 / Public Domain
DESIGNED FOR EVERYDAY LIFE

MADE FOR THE AGES

THE SHINAR STANDARD

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DURABLE STAINLESS STEEL

Made from hard-wearing stainless steel, chosen for strength and durability.

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18CT GOLD PLATED

Finished in our rich 18ct gold for the warmth and character of fine gold jewellery.

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WATERPROOF

Designed to go wherever you do — waterproof for everyday wear, from the shower to the pool and sea.

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SHINAR GUARANTEE

Designed for lasting wear and supported by the Shinar Jewels guarantee.

ANCIENT INSPIRATION · MODERN MATERIALS · MADE FOR THE AGES