This exquisite antique Victorian cameo brooch dates from the mid-19th century and features a beautifully hand-carved cameo crafted from a bullmouth or sardonyx shell. The high-relief cameo depicts the side profile of a classical maiden adorned with delicate flowers in her hair and is set in an interlaced 9ct yellow gold frame, with four engraved leaves woven in.
Roman-style cameos became highly fashionable in Britain during the 19th century, particularly as souvenirs of the 'Grand Tour,' when travellers developed a fascination with Italy and classical antiquity. They often depicted mythological figures or goddesses and were a favourite of Queen Victoria also.
This brooch offers a clever twist as the cameo can be rotated to reveal a hidden locket on the reverse, preserving a miniature daguerreotype portrait behind glass. Daguerreotypes were the earliest practical photographic process, marking the dawn of modern photography and this one is well-preserved, showing a finely dressed gentleman, likely a husband or father who was clearly very special and worthy of remembrance.
A truly historic and captivating piece, this Victorian cameo brooch is perfect for collectors and lovers of Victorian heritage. It’s been updated with a securer safety lock catch at the back and is complete with its original fitted box lined with sumptuous navy-blue velvet and silk.
WEIGHT: 25.9 grams
MEASURES: Width 46mm x Height 52mm x Depth 11mm – Locket/ Cameo 31 x 38mm
STONES: Bullmouth/ Sardonyx Shell
METAL: 9ct Gold
AGE: Victorian. (Circa 1860)
MARKS: No marks, typical for items made before hallmarking legislation was introduced
CONDITION: Excellent, commensurate with age
ITEM NUMBER: 7094
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