Silver pomander in the form of a skull

A silver pomander in the form of a skull.

German, 17th century.

Measures 3.2 x 2.3 x 2.1cm (excluding loose bail).

Weighs 20 grams.

The hinged pendant opens to reveal a hollowed interior, each side separated by a silver plate. To one side are six segments, the plate engraved with their corresponding perfumed contents. The other side of the interior is pierced through the eyes with that side of the plate engraved ‘Memento Mori, TG’, the ’TG’ most likely represents the initials of the original owner.

At a time when plague and disease was rampant, the medical theory was that disease was carried by foul air. A pomander was considered an effective measure to protect the user of such illnesses.

A vinegar soaked sponge would have been stored behind the front of the skull and the vapours could be inhaled through holes in the eye sockets. The segmented compartment at the reverse of the skull would have contained different solidified scents, each with their own specific protective properties.

In case the pomander proved ineffective against protecting the wearer, the visual reminder of the skull, a representation of death and our mortality would be a useful reminder of what is to come for all of us.