Superb Early 19th C Cameo of Greco Roman Symbols

Some girls like flowers, some prefer diamonds— and better yet, some prefer bouquets of the Greco-Roman Symbology variety, rendered in shell, enthroned in a halo of glowing pearls. I may, in fact, be one of the latter.

This rare cameo boasts the symbols of four of the Twelve Olympians, as they pantheon of major Greco-Roman gods was called. Very much in the way that a bouquet could be read to construct a sentence of sentiment in the 19th century, the symbols of the gods might be read the same way. To build the meaning, we will begin at the back ground and work toward the front of the rendered planes of the cameo.

The first element of the “bouquet” is a bow- the one rendered here is more of a crossbow, but we do not often see them. The crossbow is associated with our huntress, the goddess Diana. Next, an anchor, with its pointed edges, harkens to our beautiful Aphrodite; born of the sea and protectress of seafaring travelers. Then— the caduceus— gift of Apolo to Hermes, much like the on depicted in the Farnese Hermes- we see it now as the medical staff- at the time, it was considered more of an enchanted wand that brought light feet to all who touched it. And lastly- watching over the other instruments of enchantment- the quiver of Cupid. For who escapes the arrows of love? Not even the gods themselves.

Materials and Features: Shell cameo, 12ct, pearls

Age/Origin: Estimated c.1830, English

Marks: -None-

Measurements: 1.25" in height

Weight: 8.54g

Condition: Overall, excellent condition, there are some lines in the shell, as is to be expected of a cameo of this age. 

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.