Limoges, beginning of the 17th century. Probably by Jean Guibert (ca. 1570/75–1626).

Polychrome-painted enamel, depicting the Rape of Europa by Zeus, probably after a design from the workshop of Hendrick Goltzius (1558–1617). In a fine gilt mount, the back set with a mirror, the front can be opened. The inside originally probably with a miniature portrait (missing). The frame featuring egg-and-dart decoration; with an eyelet.

11 x 6.7 cm.

Enamel with various restorations and losses. Mirror, heavily corroded. Gilding, strongly rubbed.

Attractive object, probably originally part of a set. The depiction of the Abduction of Europa by Zeus is probably borrowed from a copper engraving of 1590, the design of which comes from the workshop of Hendrick Goltzius; sheet 20 from the set of Ovid's Metamorphoses (cf. Online Collection Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden; https://skd-online-collection.skd.museum/Details/Index/569747).
A very similar medallion with a mirror, which also features an enamel miniature by Guibert, is in the British Museum (Inventory WB 40); however, the mount of this medallion is a galvanoplastic reproduction. This medallion depicts Atalanta and Meleager with the Calydonian boar.