Pendant with a Centaur 1885 - 1890

This is a pendant with a centaur made with enamel, gold, pearls, and precious stones by Alfred André. André worked during a time of renewed interest in classicism. His centaur embodies a figure from Greek mythology, but also raises questions about hybridity and identity. The centaur, as a being that is both man and beast, invites us to consider the boundaries of identity. This pendant reflects the social and cultural norms of the late 19th century, while also presenting an alternative narrative. The opulence and grandeur of the piece contrast with the more primal and instinctual nature of the centaur, thus creating a tension that speaks to societal expectations and individual desires. André's creation captures both the beauty and the struggle of existing between worlds.