Revival Objets d'Art and Vertu

The cameo at the center of this exceptional pendant is a stunning example of the art of gem engraving during the Renaissance. It likely dates to the early 17th century and features a sacrificial scene inspired by the Greco-Roman era. The central flaming altar is flanked by two figures preparing to sacrifice a ram, while a figure in a lion skin blowing horns stands in the left corner. The carver brilliantly uses the natural layers of the stone to achieve the illusion of shadow and musculature on the figures. A second, smaller cameo is set at the top of the pendant, while a myriad of multi-colored gems, pearls and enamel adorns the 18K gold setting. A large Baroque pearl suspended from an enamel dragon finishes the design, which embodies the opulence and theatricality of jewels from the Renaissance age. Cameos and intaglios were highly popular amongst wealthy connoisseurs in Renaissance Italy, and owning the finest pieces was the privilege of princes. Although they were often elaborately mounted for display alone, cameos were also frequently worn as pendants, surrounded by enameled and stone-set gold frames. Such pieces were particularly prized by the Medici and Lorraine families, many of which can now be seen at the National Archeological Museum in Florence. Very few Renaissance cameos...

Considered very auspicious in both Chinese and Japanese cultures, the gourd has a long history of talismanic use in warding off evil and promoting good fortune. In Chinese, it is cal...

Elegant, rare, and dating to the late Qing period (circa 1890s), this hand-carved nearly colorless white nephrite plaque has been etched on both sides. One one, the Chinese mythological figure known as Zhang Guo Lao is depicted riding a mule. On the opposite side, a magpie sits on a branch of cherry blossoms. The magpie is associated with intelligence. The carving is breathlessly simple and excellent; the work executed -of course- without the aid of electricity or modern tools. Measuring 42.54mm x 29.92mm, the plaque has a hole drilled through the center, which is original to the piece. A silver bail is threaded through the hole and a pair of beads -black jade and coral- reside at the bottom. The jade plaque hands from a 1920s silver chain that is 32" in length. Prior to the discovery of and appreciation for the very fine green jadeite from Burma, colorless, opaque, pure white nephrite jade from the Northern mountains of China was the most revered jade; the original "imperial jade, as only members of the royal court could wear or even touch it. Most of what is commercially sold today as "mutton fat...

A Museum Quality silver-gilt belt buckle with enamel decoration, and teardrop shaped coral and dating to circa 1830, from Saframpolis (Safranbolu...

Large scale, highly detailed 19th century Russian Old Believers reticulated silver cross. Finely hand wrought with beautiful patina from being handled with love and devotion. The top and the base of the crucifix chased with stylized Cyrillic letters as is customary in Russian Old Believers crosses...

One of the most sacred and revered images of the Virgin, the iconography refers to an event which took place on November 27th, 1165 during the assault on the city of Novgorod. In an effort to save the city, the citizens of Novgorod brought the icon of Our Lady of the Sign to the city wall and when one of the arrows struck the icon, tears formed on the image. The Bishop of Novgorod proclaimed that this was a sign that the Virgin was entreating her Son to spare the city. Novgorod was spared and the image, known as Znamenie, became highly venerated in Russia as a powerful protection symbol. This beautiful travel icon...

Figural "key" pendant. The top is comprised of a double "CC" monogram, in textured 14K yellow gold. The key is gilt metal, so you can have your own key custom cut. 1 3/4" x 2/3." ...

For the baby who has everything: a sterling silver and enamel feeding spoon and napkin ring, in the original presentation box. Made in Birmingham, 1906. The spoon and napkin ring ...

RELIQUARY PENDANT WITH PEARL Spain or Spanish Netherlands, c. 1620 Gold, rock crystal, enamel, pearl, bone relics Weight 12.9 grams; dimensions 40 ...

DEAKIN & FRANCIS, Piccadilly Arcade, London This stunning vintage locket is the perfect gift for all. Made to keep personal things close at all times t...

The “David” pendant is part of our jewelry line “Homage to the ancestors”, inspired by famous oeuvres of great artists. Specifically, this pendant represents the well- known David of...

A fine silver, enamel, & agate bowl. With a carved agate bowl mounted on a silver & enamel base. We're unsure about the bowl's origin, although we have a strong inclination to think that it's Austrian. The base has intricate embossed flowers in silver...