Antique French 18K Gold Cameo Agate Hardstone Victorian - c.1880

Welcome to Artisan Antiques based in Mayfair, London - We are delighted to offer this magnificent large antique 18ct gold shell cameo brooch/pendant locket made c.1860, depicting a figurehead of Hera - a Greek mythological goddess of women, marriage and childbirth (also referred to as Juno by the Romans). Its majestic presence, distinguished design and impressive size are immediately captivating even to the untrained eye and whilst undeniably attractive and delightful even at a quick glance, it is upon closer inspection that its true splendour and intricacy can be fully appreciated. The overall design features a whole array of wonderful embellishments and craftsmanship; a profusely decorated frame made from solid 18ct gold is accented with layers of applied gold ribbons/bows, beads and twist-rope borders. What is particularly noteworthy about this frame/border is the fact it has a concave 'doughnut' like shape that contours the cameo whilst also allowing for the spinning locket design to function flawlessly. Upon unfastening the rear pin, the central cameo spins around and presents a locket with a portrait of a gentleman and the fine mechanism and craftsmanship of the central piece can be further appreciated. The portrayal of Hera 'in profile' (side on) is simply splendid with crisp engravings, attractive proportions and an almost lifelike texture/facial expression in the manner of Renaissance sculptures. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a large pin for fastening on to a coat lapel or jumper with an additional later added safety chain. Further, the bail at the top allows for this piece to be worn as a magnificent pendant necklace. All of the combined factors make this cameo brooch a wonderful collectable piece of 19th-century antique jewellery history which would not only make for an excellent display piece but an inimitable and breathtaking brooch to wear on special occasions. Not only would the aesthetic be impressionable, but as a conversation starter, this brooch may serve as the perfect occasion to share your discerning historical/antiques passion...

Welcome to Artisan Antiques based in Mayfair, London - We are delighted to offer this superb Victorian 18ct gold ring with an intricate navette design made c.1880. Distinctly Vict...

We are delighted to offer this superb Victorian 18ct gold ring with an intricate navette design made c.1880. Distinctly Victorian and distinguished from contemporary pieces, this ...

We are delighted to offer this magnificent and large Victorian 18K gold brooch. The brooch is constructed entirely from solid 18K gold ...

--Stone(s):-- (3) Natural Genuine Hardstones - Oval Cut - Bezel Set - Black w/ White Carving - 26.7x20.5mm (center), 13.8x10mm (sides, each) (approx.) (8) Genuine Cultured Pearls - R...

Era: Victorian Date: 1860s - 1870s Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Banded Agate / Hardstone Cut: Carved Stone Size: 37.8mm x 27.9mm Style: Brooch Fasteni...

Era: Victorian Date: 1880s - 1890s Metal Content: 10k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Banded Agate / Hardstone Cut: Cameo Style: Brooch Fastening Type: Hinged Pin & C-Clasp ...

Era: Victorian Date: 1870s - 1880s Metal Content: 14k Rose Gold Stone Information Natural Hardstone Banded Agate Cut: Carved Cameo Size: 19mm x 13.4mm Cultured Seed Pearls Theme:...