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 lovely, stylized beauty is carved of shell. With flowers and feathers in her hair and fancy lace at her shoulders, she seems to be ready for a night at the theatre, or perhaps a ball. Set in 10 karat gold with detailed flowers at the shoulders, she has been well housed in her beautiful setting, and can now be shown off for another round of admiration in your collection!
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 5.75
Weight: 2.9 grams
Materials: Gold, Carved Shell Cameo
Metal: 10K yellow gold
Marks: 10
Condition: Excellent Antique condition
LORL, LOE