18th century carved coral brooch
18th century carved coral brooch
6761
A fine and rare 18th century carved coral brooch of Leda and the swan set in yellow gold, circa 1770
Leda and the Swan is a famous myth from Greek mythology, in which the god Zeus transforms into a swan and seduces Leda, the queen of Sparta. In some versions, Leda and the swan mate, and as a result, she becomes pregnant with two eggs. From these eggs hatch two sets of twins: Helen and Clytemnestra, and Castor and Pollux.
The myth symbolises themes of power, transformation, and divine intervention, often depicting the delicate balance between humanity and the gods. It has been a popular subject in art, particularly in painting and sculpture, representing beauty and tragedy intertwined.
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