PC580.00. This charm has three people, all intertwined, so that even the sides of this charm are something you must look at to get the entire effect. This charm is a miniature replica of Giambologna's statue of THE RAPE OF THE SABINE WOMEN (c. 1460's), a Renaissance masterpiece which resides in Florence or Firenze, Italy. It depicts the story of Romulus, the mythological founder of Rome along with his brother Remus, who when the Roman civilization faced distinction because they were very short of women, invited the neighboring Sabines to come to Rome for a festival. Upon their arrival, the Sabine women were snatched up and carried off by Roman soldiers which is what this charm portrays. According to the legend, they did not actually rape the women, but Romulus spoke with each one and offered her land and riches if she would stay and marry a Roman man. His mission was successful and Rome flourished! Peter Paul Reubens created a masterpiece painting of this same name.

This charm measures 1 1/8" by 1/2" by nearly 1/4" in width and weighs 5 grams. From each side you get a different perspective on this miniature work of art. I can't even imagine the skill it must have taken to create this piece. It is in wonderful condition with a mellowed patina and is hallmarked 800 for the silver content on the bottom. I believe this to be a very, very RARE charm, one that you may never find again. If you're a lover of Renaissance art, this is a must have!