Royal Jewels of Poland and Lithuania Collections of the Jagiellon and Vasa Dynasts

Royal Jewels of Poland and Lithuania Collections of the Jagiellon and Vasa Dynasts Ewa Letkiewicz Pages: 404 p. Size:156 x 234 mm Illustrations:8 b/w, 96 col. Language(s):English Publication Year:2024 Buy print version ? 145,00 EXCL. VAT RETAIL PRICE ISBN: 978-2-503-60577-7 Hardback Available This volume unravels the rich collections of the Jagiellon and Vasa dynasties, where jewellery symbolised power, piety, and politics, showcasing an era where even elk hooves and eagle stones became treasures, embodying cultural beliefs and elite prestige. Subject(s) Precious metal, stones and Jewellery artworks Iconography, Symbolism & representation in art and architecture Political & institutional history (c. 500-1500) East-Central & Eastern Europe (c. 500-1500) Political & institutional history (c. 1501-1800) East-Central & Eastern Europe (c. 1501-1800) BIO Professor Ewa Letkiewicz is an art historian working at the Department of Art History, Faculty of Arts, University of Marie Curie-Sklodowska, Lublin. Her research concentrates on jewellery and jewellery collections, their history as well as the antiquarian trade and other ways of acquiring jewellery. She has published widely on techniques of jewellery making and on the creators and designers of jewellery. She is the author of three monographs and over a hundred articles, and also edited and co-edited the series "Body, dress, jewellery" (Lublin, 2019) which examined cultural, social and political contexts of bodies, dresses and jewellery. Summary This volume delves into the rich histories of the Jagiellon and Vasa dynasties, shedding light on the profound interplay between jewellery and socio-political forces. Readers are invited into an era where jewellery bore multifaceted significance, from symbolising power and piety to facilitating economic engagements. The royal perception of value extended beyond traditional treasures, with a keen interest in animal-derived artefacts. These unconventional items, such as elk hooves or eagle stones, were highly esteemed, reflecting both luxury's diverse nature and the era's cultural and mystical beliefs. Rather than merely cataloguing these artefacts, this study animates them, intertwining narratives of monarchs, nobles, craftsmen, and the lands from which these treasures emerged. It delves into a world where a gem's glint signifies might, gold hints at empires' expanse, and a narwhal's horn could determine kingdoms' destinies. Jewellery has long held a central position in history, particularly among the elite. These pieces were not simply decorative; they conveyed prestige, societal position, and authority. They symbolised both worldly and spiritual prominence, enriched with a complex symbolism. Beyond showcasing wealth, jewellery played crucial roles in diplomacy and politics. What meanings did these unique gems carry for their initial owners? This book uncovers the tales, magnetism, and mystery surrounding these jewellery collections. It paints a picture where jewellery transcends mere ornamentation, serving as a powerful testament to influence, devotion, and grandeur. TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Chapter 1. In the Service of the Ruler and the Dynasty Jewels with Royal Monograms Jewels with Heraldic Representations Medals Gifts of Rulers and Magnates Gifts of Towns Jewels as Hoarded Objects Jewels for God and Saints Chapter 2. The Splendour of Jewels. Ornaments for the Body and Attire Ornaments for Hair and Headgear Earrings Decorations Rings Manele, Armlets Chains, Karkans, Alzbants, Kanaks, Collars Noszenia, Pendants, Clasps, Enseignes Pontaly, Ferety and other Jewels sewn onto Clothes Buttons, Hooks and Eyes, Pins Belts and their Accessories R