Cameo Brooch of Diana and Acteon In 12ct Baroque Frame

Romantic and whimsical, this rare 19th century brooch is a museum-quality adornment!

Crafted circa 1850, this brooch is set in 12 carat gold and features a stunning Baroque frame. Also beautiful is the soft, rosey peach-hued cameo shell, upon which we see the delicate visage of the Greek Goddess Diana, and the Theban hero Actaeon in the form of a stag.

As the myth goes, Diana was bathing at a hidden spring when Actaeon stumbled upon her naked figure. Outraged at the invasion of privacy, the embarrassed Diana punished Actaeon by destroying his power of speech, and turning him into a shaggy-haired stag with large antlers.

And indeed, in this cameo, we see the figure of Artemis standing defiantly upright, one hand reaching for her quiver of arrows, and the other placed sternly upon the top of Actaeon’s deer head. Actaeon, in his stag form, stands upon his hind legs – either in a gesture of submission, or fear. Regardless, it is a powerful and rare scene.

A notable detail of this beautiful cameo piece is the moderately high relief, which lends a lovely sculptural quality to the figures.

A truly wearable work of art, perfect for any art historian and antique jewelry lover!   

Materials and Features: 12ct Gold, Cameo Shell

Age/Origin: C. 1850, English

Measurements: 3.25” height, 18.26”

Condition: Some minor crazing, overall excellent.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.