Figural High Relief White Lava Cameo of Cupid Pouring Wine, c. 1860
A wonderful 19th century grand tour cameo of epic proportion. In white lava, weighing a whopping 38g, this Cupidon is rendered emerging from a rocky landscape, reminiscent of renaissance genre paintings; his wings curve forward, arching over his quiver (which houses his weapons of love) as he pours a libration into a chalice, to raise a toast to Bacchus.
There is a relationship between cameos like this and objects from the ancient world, like the second century sarcophagus on view at the British museum, depicting the marriage of Bacchus and Ariadne (figure 1.) This tradition of depicting their nuptials in revelry was continued in the 16th century, seen in works like TItian's Bacchus and Ariadne (figures 2 + 3.)
Details
- Era: c. 1860
- Origin: Rome, exported to France c. 1860
- Materials: 14ct gold
- Stones: White lava
- Measurements: 51mm x 42mm x 23mm
- Weight: 38g
- Setting / Construction: Figural high relief cameo in a bezel setting, representative of archaeological revival.
- Condition: Very good historical condition for so high a relief; there is some breakage to the wine jug and the bezel is not in excellent shape, but still an outstanding thing, representative of archaeological revival.
- Hallmarks / Stamps: None.
Shipping & Services
Ships fully insured, signature required via UPS from our NYC office. Full historical certification and appraisal services available upon request with documentation and photographs. A guarantee of authenticity and insurance paperwork are available upon request for all curated items.
The Curio NYC | Fine Historical Jewels | NYC + Paris.
