Victorian Coral Grape Bunch Earrings

Adorable antique grape bunch earrings made in Italy in the latter half of the 19th century, circa 1890. The grapes are individual spheres of red coral with silver gilt leaves draped over the top of each bunch. They hang from screw backs and remain complete with the original blue and green presentation box (which is itself super Italian). Italian coral was collected and carved in the small costal town of Torre del Greco in the Kingdom of Naples, where, riding the wave of Neoclassisim, such pieces were produced as souvenirs for European aristocrats on their 'Grand Tours'. Coral was believed to have protective and mystical properties - thought to ward off evil, ensure health, and provide luck. The grape bunch, associated with Bacchus-Dionysus, functioned as a symbol of decadence and abundance... rather potent when combined with coral. Era: Victorian, circa 1890 Size: 4.4cm by 1.4cm Stone: Red Coral Marks: Stamped 800 (silver) Condition: Great antique condition; light wear consistent with age. Presented in original box.