An 18 carat gold pomander pendant, circa 1820. The name pomander comes from the French term “pomme d’ambre” — which roughly translates as “apple of perfume,” or a perfume ball. A pomander worn on a chain and filled with a perfume impregnated sponge was used to mask unpleasant odours in the streets of London and repel illness.  Considered an early form of aromatherapy, pomanders were believed to prevent plague and infections, which were thought to spread through bad air. This pomander is richly decorated with floral and Rococo shell motifs. It measures 3/4 of an inch by 3/4 of an inch and is substantial and immaculate.

sold
Item ref : ES10