SOLD Victorian Full Face Lava Cherub Cameo Brooch Pendant 925 Silver

Jewelry : Antique : Fine : Victorian : Cameo : Lava : Carved : Vesuvius : Brooch : Pendant : 925 Silver

 

This is an endearing late Victorian Period cameo depiction of a young Roman man or cherub, carved with tremendous three dimensional relief from genuine lava. The bezel is a custom made 925 Sterling Silver bezel brooch and pendant combination. Neither the bezel or clasp is stamped but is tested and guaranteed as 925 Sterling silver.

The young fellow has been coyly smiling at me for many years. Doesn't he have "great hair"? The entire setting measures 31mm (1 1/4") tall, not including the locking fold down bail, by 27mm (1 1/16") wide. The bezel is a nice 3mm deep, and much more secure than its antique counterparts. There is a hinged, fold down pendant bail for wear on a necklace chain and a brooch pin with locking clasp, as he would be adorable pinned to lapel or shirt pocket.

The carving has captured his thick, flowing curls that are crowned in a laurel wreath. This portion of the carving has the greatest relief at just over 5/8" thick. His total weight is 10.3 grams.

His sweet and handsome face calls out to anyone that view him. His eyes, nose and mouth combine into a very pleasing facial expression, almost asking you "why" or perhaps he is snickering. The carver even included apples in his cheeks. Carved in full face frontal view, his strong chin realistically flows into his perfect neck, shoulders and bare chest. So perfect and adorable, that I have always called him "Prince Charming", but he is, no doubt, a very pretty young Roman man.

The carving showcases the beauty of the lava used from the many eruptions of Mt. Vesuvius. The most famous eruption of A.D. 79 buried the opulent cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, where depictions of these nubile youths once abound. The archaeological discovery of Pompeii in the late 17th century brought droves of 18th century Georgian and 19th century Victorian tourists on The Grand Tour, who clamored for lava cameo carvings to take home as souvenirs and evidence of their journey. No aristocratic European education was considered completed without having gone on The Grand Tour. With intentions to have these wondrous beauties custom mounted upon their return home, many ancient cameos of all mediums still remain unset today. This eternally enchanting fella has never been worn before by anyone.

The specimens of lava will vary in color dependent on location and the heat/cooling associated with the lava flow, with this particular specimen being a deep moss green. The carving's condition is excellent and without chips or cracks. He is a treat for the eyes and the soul. No worry about expensive repairs to an ancient setting before wearing. He's ready to go! What woman can resist the charm of a handsome Italian man?

This carved lava cameo will be delivered in a lovely presentation case, perfect for gift giving and storage.

Item ID: C-1557

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Sweet Nectar of Youth