Museo Civico Medievale - Coat of arms of the Grassi family

This silver filigree necklace features a double-headed eagle, adorned with eleven fruit pits meticulously carved on both sides with depictions of the Apostles and saints. These carvings are traditionally attributed to the renowned sculptor Properzia de' Rossi, celebrated by painter and art historian Giorgio Vasari as the only female artist active in the San Petronio workshop. Known for her skill in stone sculpture, Properzia was also famous for her micro-carving skills applied to unusual materials like fruit pits. These humble objects transformed into precious examples of the artist's talent and technique, marvels collected to inspire awe in viewers.