Antique Victorian 21K Gold Cameo Tiara
$15,995.00
$15,995.00
Circa 1860. This tiara is a masterwork of craftsmanship, showcasing the art of cameo carving at its finest. The piece consists of three impeccably detailed cameos, each presenting a distinct subject steeped in classical symbolism: Antinous, a Bacchante, and the Goddess Flora.
Antinous, renowned for his association with classical beauty and mystery, is depicted with leaves delicately woven into his hair. The precision of the carving brings the texture of the leaves to life, and the drape over his shoulder flows with a soft realism that feels almost tactile. His serene expression conveys both elegance and introspection, a testament to the artist's mastery.
The Bacchante, a follower of Bacchus, is portrayed in a scene brimming with vitality. Her hair is adorned with vine leaves, carved with an extraordinary use of the shell’s natural colors to highlight their liveliness. She holds a cup of wine in one hand, embodying the spirit of revelry, while her other hand delicately grasps what appear to be cymbals, an instrument often associated with the ecstatic rhythms of Bacchanalian processions. The cymbals and the vine leaves glow with subtle hues that enhance their vividness, creating a dynamic composition that almost bursts with motion.
The final cameo features the Goddess Flora, a vision of grace and femininity. Her curvaceous form is carved with exquisite detail, and her delicate face, accentuated by a soft blush effect achieved through the shell's natural tones, radiates beauty. She holds a garland of flowers with one hand, each bloom intricately defined, while another floral garland crowns her head, secured by a charming bow. The use of varying shell colors to distinguish the flowers and enhance the blush on her cheeks is nothing short of remarkable.
These cameos are set into an elaborate gold frame, which itself is a triumph of Victorian design. The frame is intricate, with delicate scrolls and ornamental motifs that harmonize with the classical themes of the cameos. It complements the artwork without overshadowing it, emphasizing the tiara’s status as a rare and museum-quality piece. This tiara is more than a piece of jewelry; it is a celebration of artistry, mythology, and Victorian elegance—a true treasure.
Weight: 53.6 Grams
Stone: Cornelian Shell (41 x 34 mm, 45.5 x 36.5 mm, 42 x 33.5 mm)
Measurements: 70 x 120 x 20 mm
Metal: 21K Gold
ITEM #: BR-1463-112624-13
