SOLD Antique 10K Peace Halting the Horses of Mars Shell Cameo Brooch Pendant

Jewelry : Antique : Fine : Art Nouveau : Cameo : Shell : Sardonyx : Mythological : Scene : Chariot : Brooch Pendant : Yellow Gold

 

This is an almighty shell cameo depiction of Peace halting the horses of the Roman god of war, Mars. The carver absolutely was inspired by the 1794 painting of French artist Benigne Gagneraux that is included in our photos. Great scene cameos are so much fun to research and It is always exciting to be able to trace a carving back in time to the exact work of art that inspired the cameo artist. The likeness of this carving is uncanny.

Nicely sized at 49mm wide, just under 2 inches, the sardonyx shell cameo is bezel set into a thick gold frame with twisted gold ribbon surround. The frame is unstamped, but electronically tested and guaranteed at least 10K. The setting measures 40mm tall, or 1 9/16", not including the bail. The cameo itself measures 43x35mm. The brooch pin includes a t-bar hinge and c-clasp, retaining its original extra long gold pin. The fold down bail has been beautifully and expertly added at some point in the 1900's so that this cameo can be enjoyed as a necklace pendant, as well. The condition of both cameo and setting are excellent. There are no cracks or chips to the cameo and the setting is in excellent working order. The total weight is 11.3 grams.

The artist has captured Peace with large unfurled wings, and only a swirling slip of cloth covering his loins. There are three finely carved steeds leading the way. At Peace's feet rests Mars' armor.

While there was a minor goddess named Pax, this figure certainly looks "male" to me. "Peace" ("Pax" in Latin) is what Mars found in the arms of his lover, the beautiful goddess Venus. I have seen references to the painting as both "The Spirit of Peace" and "Peace" Halting the Horses of Mars. Perhaps "peace" in this painting represents the euphoric state that Rome enjoyed and from which Gagneraux drew the inspiration for his painting. But, I am still studying and hope to always be an avid student of art, always exploring and learning something new every day.

Mr. Gagneraux died at the young age of 39 in Florence, Italy, having been one of the most highly esteemed French artists working in Rome in the late 18th century. However, only in the past 25 years have art historians been able to locate many of his works. I believe the painting to be currently housed in a Geneva, Switzerland museum. Absolutely beautiful, no? An avid fan of message cameos myself, this says to me, "Your love brings peace to my unbridled soul".

All cameo lovers and collectors should have at least one chariot scene shell cameo. They are intriguing and beautiful and such a joy to research their mythological background--especially exciting when you find the work of art from which the carver got his inspiration, be it painting, mural, sculpture or other medium. Most antique cameos will feature a brooch only setting and require the steady hand of a jeweler experienced in working with cameos for the bail addition. This one's ready to wear upon arrival!

This masterpiece will be delivered in a lovely rosewood and leather presentation box perfect for gift giving or storage, along with a copy of our complimentary cameo care instructions to keep her perfect for generations. When you have found the perfect gift, you needn't worry about the perfect box. We understand presentation is where its at!

Always free shipping in the USA with a no hassle return policy. We want our customers to love our pieces as much as we do. If for ANY reason you do not, we are happy to refund your purchase price and the return shipping. And none of those ridiculous restocking fees at Cameo Couture. NEVER will be. We pledge and guarantee every item we sell will be loved or totally refunded so you can try whatever appeals to you hassle free.

Item ID: C-1501

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Peace be with you.....