Allegorical Scene Representing Love

Created to honor the love of either a family or a close group of friends, this miniature abounds with symbolism on both sides. The front is an allegorical scene depicting a young woman seated next to a heavily decorated pedestal while playing a pearl (purity)-encrusted lyre (harmony). Her attention is pulled away by Cupid to a pair of doves (love and constancy). A banner above the scene is inscribed Sacre de Amour et Amitie which translates as “coronation of love and friendship.”

On the reverse, set within a painted border are layered hairworks from three individuals. Each piece is woven, braided or knotted in such a way that their designs seem to have no end or beginning. These never-ending patterns represent eternal bonds of love and friendship.