A cameo is a form of glyptography, or bas-relief carving, most often cut into glass, hard-stones, and shells. Artworks were crafted to create two layers on one piece of material, the top of which protruded from its background, creating a multi-dimensional artwork. These detailed reliefs were often used to adorn pieces of jewelry, including brooches, necklaces, bracelets and rings. The earliest cameos took inspiration from prehistoric petroglyphs, which documented important religious and symbolic iconography onto rock faces.
Victorians loved cameos, and wore them prolifically throughout the era. This wonderful example depicts a battle on horseback, most likely between a Roman and a Persian soldier. Beautifully carved with stunning realism, it shows two men mid-scuffle, with the figure on the left poised to deal a deathly blow. A second Roman, already defeated, is trampled under the horses' hooves. The most noted Persian victory against the Romans was the Battle of Edessa, which occurred in the year 260; the Roman army was defeated and captured in its entirety and for the first time, a Roman emperor was taken prisoner. This dramatic scene is set in 14 karat gold and accented with a cobalt blue enamel inset in the frame. A unique and historically important piece, ready to wage a war in your cameo collection!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 8.5cm x 5.5 cm
Weight: 17.3 grams
Materials: Gold, Enamel, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 14K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear
LOTLJ