C.1860-1870. A beautifully made 'Grand Tour Souvenir' 18k gold rope chain. 'Grand Tour' became a trend for young and wealthy European aristocrats to visit Paris, Florence, Venice, and above all Rome to complete their classical education. These types of jewelry were purchased by the travelers to take home as Victorian era 'souvenirs'.
The chain has a round medallion clasp that has an intricate carved grape vine & granulation detail. 'Salute' to Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, agriculture and fertility. The chain is 18k gold throughout, and the medallion tests around 22k gold. Each end of the chain has Vatican workshop marks. The length is 14.75 inches, and overall in great condition. Italian in origin.