During the mid-19th century, Japan opened trade with the West for the first time in more than 200 years. The exotic Japanese imports that were sent to Great Britain and America inspired an intense fascination with Japanese art and culture. by the 1870s, the French term Japonisme had been coined to describe the influence of Japanese aesthetics on the culture and fashion of the West. The musical The Mikado by Gilbert & Sullivan opened in New York in 1885, and Japonisme became a craze.
This lovely carved shell cameo ring has been converted from a small brooch. The shank is 14 karat gold, and the setting on the ring top is 10 karat gold. The cameo itself depicts the profile of a Japanese lady. We can see her elaborate hairstyle and the folds of her kimono on the intricately and delicately carved surface. Truly a unique piece!
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 6.5
Weight: 2.46 grams
Materials: 10K gold, 14K gold, shell cameo
Metal: 10K gold top, 14K gold shank
Marks: 14K
Condition: Very Good Antique Condition
LOE