Antique English 18K, Enamel & Apollo Cameo Brooch W/Original Box

A cameo is a form of glyptography, or bas-relief carving, most often cut into glass, hard-stones, and shells. Artworks were crafted to create two layers on one piece of material, the top of which protruded from its background, creating a multi-dimensional artwork. These detailed reliefs were often used to adorn pieces of jewelry, including brooches, necklaces, bracelets and rings. The earliest cameos took inspiration from prehistoric petroglyphs, which documented important religious and symbolic iconography onto rock faces.

Victorians loved cameos, and wore them prolifically throughout the era, often purchasing them as souvenirs on their Grand Tours. This wonderful example depicts the Roman god Apollo, driving his horse drawn chariot, with Cupid leading the way holding a torch. Beautifully carved, it is a sensational work of art! Set in rich 18 karat yellow gold, it is ornately embellished with a bright cobalt blue enamel in perfect condition! To top it all off, this piece comes in its original antique box, which bears the label of D.A. Scott Jewelers of Hartlepool England. Typically, the cameo would have been carved in Italy and set in England. A wonderful, museum-worthy piece that take the place of pride in your collection!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 2.5"

Weight: 33.84 grams

Materials: Gold, Enamel, Carved Shell Cameo

Metal: 18K yellow gold

Marks: Box is marked JEWELER/D.A.SCOTT/CHURCH STREET/WEST HARTLEPOOL

Condition: Pristine Antique condition commensurate with age and wear