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18th Century Grand Tour Bocca Della Verita Calcedony Intaglio Diamond Pendant

$12,500
£9,491.55
€10,854.29
CA$17,464.31
A$19,424.13
CHF 10,142.68
MX$236,370.98
NOK 129,537.45
SEK 121,483.28
DKK 81,009.74
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About the Item

Exceptionally rare 18th century diamond set calcedony intaglio pendant depicting the famed Roman marble Bocca della Verita, the Mouth of Truth. The enigmatic monumental rondel thought to depict the sea god Oceanus stands against the wall of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church at the Piazza della Bocca della Verita on the site of the ancient Forum Boarium in Rome. According to medieval legend, the Bocca della Verita will bite off the hand of any liar who places their hand in its mouth. This legend became world famous after its appearance in the fabulous film Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck- the two are initially not completely honest with each other about themselves and their visit to the Mouth of Truth is memorable. The intaglio is of unusually fine quality and depth. When viewed from the back, the mask appears almost otherworldly. The oval calcedony is set in silver topped gold beautifully framed by old mine cut diamonds. the jewel retains its original leather silk velvet lined presentation case with an opening to the side for a ribbon or chain. Diamonds: Old Mine cut, approximately 1.65 TCW Height: 39mm Width: 25mm Gold tests avove 14K, likely 15K 18th century Grand Tour intaglios set with diamonds are very rare and would have been a special commission for a wealthy client. The subject of the intaglio is rarer still. Museum worthy object.
  • Metal:
  • Stone:
  • Stone Cut:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.54 in (39 mm)Width: 0.99 in (25 mm)
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1887218808182

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