Pomander, possibly German, circa 1690. Antique silver © Wartski

Two early pomanders, probably Dutch, circa 1530 and 1670. Silver. Height 7.3 cm (larger example including loop). Height 4.5 cm © Wartski

The larger pomander is engraved with attributes of the goddess Venus including amorini, forget me nots and roses. These alternate between three panels engraved with gods: Mars with his helmet, shield and lance; his mother Juno with her attendant peacock; and Venus with a radiant heart in one hand and her own son Cupid in the other. The smaller pomander engraved with flowers alternating with three panels depicting birds in flight. They both open to reveal six hollow segments secured to a central stem, the lid of each sliding to allow access to a different spice or herb, each being identified by its name in the larger example.