Circa the 1970’s, this 18k gold pendant is a golden replica of the Italian La Bocca della Verità, or “The Mouth of Truth.” The giant stone mask can be found in an ancient piazza in Rome, crudely carved with wide open eyes, nostrils, and mouth. A legend dating back to the Middle Ages claims that if a liar places their hand inside the mouth, the hand will be bitten off. The 14k gold pendant makes a unique and powerful talisman—it could be worn to protect its wearer from liars and as a symbol of honesty and truth.
La Bocca della Verità is an important myth in Roman culture. It can be seen in “Roman Holiday,” the 1953 film starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, in a charming and silly exchange. This vintage charm was most likely originally a souvenir from a trip abroad. We love charms that were mementos from far-off travels long ago, but that also represent important archaeological treasures.
The charm is marked on its bail as “750”. It is 1” x 13/16” with an additional 8x4 mm bail. It weighs 4.5 grams.
Pictured here on the Victorian 10K Gold Double Link and Ball Fancy Chain, also available through our shop.
