Napoleon the first was draw to cameos as a moth flits toward a burning candle- he couldn’t get enough of them. Naturally, the fashion of carved stones, rocks, and organic matter exploded in France under us reign at the end of the 18th into the beginning of the 19th century. This brooch is a crowning acquisition of my most recent trip to Paris… as you can see, I’ve dragged my feet to list her as she is so wonderful. A cameo depiction of the veiled virgin is herein seen with curls escaping from a diaphanous veil that shrouds her ears and neck, fluttering to reveal her collar. An outstanding cameo rendering, framed decadently in rococo-revival scrolling 18ct with chased details. 

I’m including an image of Giovanni Strazza’s veiled virgin, which was rendered in the 1850’s, likely in response to the popularity of veiled virgin depictions in cameos such as this one. 

Measures 37mm in length, weighs 9.8g

Materials and Features: 

18ct gold, stunning coral cameo

Age/Origin: 

19th century neoclassicism, Circa 1810, French

Marks:

None

Dimensions: 37mm in length

Condition:

Perhaps the brooch fitting re-done, and has a line at the top, delicate gold has been shaped by time, solder repair to back. Minor associated age wear. 

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.