Atlas Holding The Heavens
This is a Victorian clear paste seal which we have transformed into a dreamy pearlescent doublet using an antique mother of pearl gaming chip.
Featuring imagery of Atlas with the celestial globe on his shoulders.
Why we love it
In Greek mythology Atlas was forced to carry the heavens upon his shoulders by Zeus. This was his punishment for leading the Titan rebellion against Zeus after the Titanomachy.
According to the ancient Greek poet Hesiod, Atlas stood at the ends of the earth in the extreme west, becoming known as Atlas Telamon ‘enduring Atlas’.
A common misconception is that Atlas was made to hold the earth on his shoulders, however Classical art shows him holding the celestial spheres, not the terrestrial globe.
Additional information
| Era | Victorian |
|---|---|
| Seal material | Clear paste mimicking rock crystal, Mother of pearl |
| Seal colour | Iridescent white |
| Seal shape | North south oval |
| Dimensions | 21.9 x 18.8 x 3.6mm |
| Condition | Very good antique condition with light surface wear |
What would Emma do?
We’ve priced this piece as our Classic Pendant, however if you’d like to set it as a Three Arm Ring or Gemstone Bezel Pendant, please do reach out to us and we will tailor a quote for you.
Why not visit our Flown Away Home section for design inspo?
