Sheila Fleet: John Rae's Fiddle large pendant in sterling silver

This Fiddle pendant in oxidised sterling silver features a hand-finished violin, measuring approximately 12mm by 32mm, hanging from a sterling silver curb chain. The fiddle is hollow, just like the real thing, with the f-holes, fingerboard, and tuning pegs all captured in exquisite detail.

The inspiration for this collection came from a fiddle that once belonged to John Rae, now held in Stromness Museum in Orkney. Orcadian John Rae is one of history's greatest explorers, who in the late 19th century discovered the final links in the Northwest Passage, opening the world's trade routes. Although it's not known if Rae played the instrument, it’s believed his fiddle was with him in the Arctic, and Rae certainly brought along fiddle players on his expeditions. Fiddle music would have been welcome entertainment on those long, cold Arctic nights.

Note: Any measurements provided are approximate due to each piece being hand-finished.