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. Popular subject matter ranged from Mythology to classical literature.
Converted from an antique stickpin, this wonderful ring features a carved shell cameo depicting a satyr, most likely Pan, the Greek god of the wild, shepherds and their flocks, as well as rustic music. He had the body of a man, the hindquarters and horns of a goat, and was known for playing the pan pipes. A wild, lustful and sometimes frightening figure, said to cause 'panic' in humans and associated with fields, groves and sexuality. We have paired him with an antique replica shank that has stylized lyres at the shoulders. The perfect ring for any gender, he will serve you well on all of your adventures!
Original element Circa 1830-60
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 9
Dimensions: Ring top is approx. 9/16"
Weight: 3.1 grams
Materials: Gold, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 18K yellow gold (original element) 14K yellow gold (antique replia shank)
Marks: 14K
Condition: Excellent converted antique condition commensurate with age and wear