17th-18th century A.D.. A carved agate facing bust within a lapis lazuli plaque, held in a silver canatille frame comprising elaborate filigree foliage and with suspension loop; image of Pope Alexander VII. 500 grams, 28.5 cm (11 1/4 in.).

Pope Alexander VII was born Fabio Chigi and took the role of head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 7 April 1655 to his death, in May 1667. He held a number of diplomatic positions in the Holy See, was ordained in 1634, and became bishop of Nardo in 1635. Pope Innocent X elevated him to the role of secretary of state in 1651, and in the following year he was appointed a cardinal. Alexander VII supported various construction projects in Rome, wrote poetry and patronized artists working on the decoration of churches.

Private collection, England.