Toothpick pendant in the form of a mermaid. Italy or Germany, 16th century. British Museum WB. 188. Bequeathed by Baron Ferdinand Rothschild. © The Trustees of the British Museum.

gold head, scroll head-dress enamelled; body of baroque pearl; lower part terminates in point engraved with scroll pattern between translucent green enamel; two cartouches in relief at junction with body, enamelled and set with three rubies in raised settings. Length: 7.6 centimetres - Width: 1.5 centimetres (widest part) - Depth: 3.5 centimetres - Diameter: 0.6 centimetres (ring) - Weight: 22 grammes