Amulet in the Form of a Hoshen (Breastplate)
ca. 1600
Rudolf II supported not only the arts but also the sciences. In his day these included astrology and alchemy, which the emperor valued very highly. Exotic natural specimens, metals and precious stones were believed to have special powers. In vessels of “unicorn horn” or bezoar stone, amulets and even table bells, these beliefs were expressed in the shape of exceptional showpieces.
Rudolf II supported not only the arts but also the sciences. In his day these included astrology and alchemy, which the emperor valued very highly. Exotic natural specimens, metals and precious stones were believed to have special powers. In vessels of “unicorn horn” or bezoar stone, amulets and even table bells, these beliefs were expressed in the shape of exceptional showpieces.
Time:
ca. 1600
Object Name
Gem, Intaglio; Pendant
Culture
Prague
Material/technology:
Gold, enamel, onyx, emerald, amethyst, ruby, sapphire, corundum, moss agate, hessonite, almandine, agate, turquoise, cornelian
Dimensions:
H. 6,8 cm, B. 5,8 cm
Inscribed
"Kaiser Rudolf"; "Du bist ewiglich machtvoll, o Herr. O gewaltiger Gott, sei gnädig dem erhabenen König, stärke und segne ihn; verleihe ihm Gnade und Macht über alle lebenden Dinge und Herrschaft über das Volk unter seiner Führung durch die heiligen Engel Hadarniel, Gabriel und...liel. Amen. Sela. Gesegnet sei Sein Name, dessen glorreiches Königtum für alle Ewigkeit ist"; Namen d. 12 Engel, 12 Söhne Jakobs
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Antikensammlung, XII 383