Antique Huge Mythological Hand-Carved Shell Cameo, "Euterpe with Angel"

Jewelry : Antique : Cameo : Mythology : Huge Carved Shell Cameo : "Euterpe With Angel"

 

This is an incredible cameo...a background of light to dark peach tones with the carved area in the richest cream color. This is very well-carved with excellent detail. Even the feathers of the little angels wings, as well as the folds of Euterpe's gown are exact. The condition of this cameo is good considering the age. There is a slight crack or flaking at the bottom, just at and to the right of center. No chips or other cracks. It could use a cleaning, which I have never done. The frame is lovely and different, with swirls and tiny berries (?) It has the very old style safety catch of a gold "L" shape, and the "C" clasp. Huge piece, the cameo itself is 2 and 1/4 inches long and 1 and 3/4 inches wide. The bezel increases the width to 2 inches and the length to 2 and 1/2 inches long. The bezel is gold; I was told 18K, but have no way to check. ... The shape of the cameo is interesting; somewhat curved. All told, a piece you will be hard pressed to find another like it.

Item ID: 2026