Antique Pendant Brooch With Layered Agate Cameo in Gold, Historism c. 1880

The aesthetic worlds of the past have in all times exercised their charm on artists and craftsmen, whether as inspiration or backdrop, from which one wanted to stand out. Especially in epochs of upheaval, however, the past was often rediscovered to provide advice and guidance for one's own time as well. The 19th century with its rapid technical developments loved the forms of the past. It was the art of historicism that dominated the art world in the 2nd half of the century. Always in search of the appropriate forms, jewellery in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque designs were created during this period. Particularly popular were finely cut cameos, which were particularly suitable to represent historical events or personalities. This piece of jewellery also celebrates the arts of the past. It sets a cameo made of layered agate in a wide frame of gold and presents the portrait of a young woman in Renaissance costume. She wears a dress or shawl of light fabric, rich curls and a ribbon in her hair. Beautifully and clearly, her bright portrait stands out against the warm orange-gray shimmering ground of the stone. The warm tone of the gold, further enhanced by a velvety overlay of fine gold, complements this inviting impression; an appliquéd border enlivens the curved framing and evokes bobbin lace. The piece of jewellery can be worn as a brooch and pendant. It came to us from Minden, is very beautifully preserved and a wonderful testimony to its time, which also looks extremely splendid when worn.

Estimate:£1,180.7

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