Telescope Necklace

J.M.W. Turner’s love of the sea has inspired the creation of this distinctive telescope charm necklace. It’s exclusive to The National Gallery and forms part of the Eclectic Eccentricity collection of vintage and contemporary jewellery from designer Lucy Averill.

Our brass telescope extends in an authentic-looking way to a maximum of 8cm. A blue glass bead and a small brass swallow are joined to the telescope, which in turn hangs from a 24-inch gold plated chain. Swallows have been associated with maritime life for many years; not only does a swallow tattoo indicate an experienced sailor but the swallow also symbolises love and loyalty for those away at sea.

The techniques that J.M.W. Turner used to portray light in his landscape and seascape paintings have resulted in him becoming one of the best-loved English Romantic artists. As well as striving to impart a spiritual quality to his work, he was fascinated by the technology of the ships he painted. This original necklace design celebrates Turner’s work by reminding its wearer of the practicality and the romance of a seafaring life.