4. Artist Unknown, Paris, “Neoclassical Necklace,” about 1800–1810

Bijoux Parisiens

In this necklace, the artist elegantly suspended a medallion depicting Athena, goddess of wisdom, from two swans, a symbol associated with Napoleon’s first wife, the Empress Joséphine. Bolstering his own empire, Napoleon I set a new taste for objects based on ancient Roman art. He especially adored antique cameos, small hardstones with figures carved in relief. This enamel plaque replicates a cameo design.