Vintage Pendant Brooch with a Shell Cameo in Silver, Italy, c. 1965

This piece of jewellery, which can be worn as both a pendant and a brooch, features a beautiful shell cameo from Italy: The gem, believed to have been crafted in the Naples area, depicts a finely carved portrait of a young woman with her hair artfully pinned up. She wears delicate flowers in her hair and on her shoulder. With her head slightly bowed, she gazes dreamily into the distance. Gemstone jewelry was among the most popular forms of jewelry, especially in the 19th century. In the 20th century, however, both the style and the subject matter of cameo jewelry changed. While mythological figures and ancient goddesses had previously been the predominant subjects, cameo jewelry from the 1950s onward increasingly depicted idealized young women. This piece of jewellery illustrates that transformation. The bold cut stands out clearly against the carnelian-colored background. The woman’s hairstyle is reminiscent of the great divas of Italian cinema, such as Gina Lollobrigida or Sophia Loren. At the same time, it retains features of the goddess Flora, from whose classical depiction this motif undoubtedly evolved. A simple silver setting holds the cameo. The piece of jewellery can be worn as a brooch or as a pendant. A beautiful souvenir from Italy.

Estimate:£250.92

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