Fine Georgian Hercules Farnese Carved Shell Cameo In Victorian 9ct Gold Brooch

A finely carved oyster shell cameo from the very early 1800s depicting the head of the great classical hero Hercules. The subject is taken from the 3rd century AD Roman marble statue known as the Hercules Farnese which is thought to be a copy of an earlier 4th century BC Greek work in bronze by Lysippos.

As in the sculpture, the shell cameo shows the mature classical hero with a head of tight curls, a full beard, creased brow and powerfully muscular neck. The cameo has been set in Victorian times as a brooch (stamped 9ct) with scrollwork and bead decoration.

It fastens with a white metal pin and'c' clasp on the back. The cameo has some stress lines and there is a small crack at the bottom left edge of the shell. The tiny dark blemishes in the carving are of natural marine origin. The gold mount is in good condition for the age and it measures approximately 48mm x 23mm overall.

The item "FINE GEORGIAN HERCULES FARNESE CARVED SHELL CAMEO IN VICTORIAN 9CT GOLD BROOCH" is in sale since Monday, April 19, 2021. This item is in the category "Jewellery & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewellery\Vintage Fine Jewellery\Pre-1837". The seller is "duskybrocade" and is located in Gloucestershire.

This item can be shipped worldwide.

• Gold Quality: 9ct
• Type: Brooch/ Pin
• Metal: Gold

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