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, often purchasing them as souvenirs on their Grand Tours. A popular subject matter was mythology. In Ancient Roman and Greek mythology, Cupid (Eros), the son of Venus (Aphrodite) rides a dolphin, one of the team that pulls his mother's chariot in the sea.
Originally purchased as an antique brooch, we have had this wonderful cameo converted into a pendant. With a simple setting, the well-carved depiction of Cupid carrying his dolphin is a great piece for any mythology buff!
Circa 1870-90
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1.75" including bale
Weight: 4.3 grams
Materials: Gold, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 18K yellow gold
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent converted Antique condition commensurate with age and wear