Georgian Hygieia Cameo Pendant
Remarkable Georgian pendant set with a blue jasperware cameo depicting Hygieia, the Ancient Greek Muse of health, with a serpent in her left hand making an offering to her father, Asclepius. It was made around 1790, likely to commemorate king George III's recovery from illness the previous year, and the plaque remains in its original 15 carat rose gold pendant mount. The detail is extraordinary, particularly the smoke rising from the flames which swirls and fades in a strikingly realistic manner.
The worship of Hygieia was closely related to the Cult of Asclepius, however while Asclepius was associated directly with healing, Hygieia was revered for the prevention of sickness and preservation of good health - hence our word hygiene. She is also one of the healing gods mentioned in the Hippocratic oath:
I swear by Apollo Healer, by Asclepius, by Hygieia, by Panacea, and by all the gods and goddesses, making them my witnesses, that I will carry out, according to my ability and judgment, this oath and this indenture.
Although unmarked, the panel is attributable to Josiah Wedgwood (& Sons); although the majority of their work was stamped, a lack of marks was not common for smaller articles intended to be mounted in jewellery. Similar examples can be found in the collections of the V&A, the British Museum, and the Royal Collection Trust.
Era: Georgian, circa 1790
Size: 4.1cm (including bail) by 2.4cm
Stone: Jasperware Cameo
Marks: None, tested as 15ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable).
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain).
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Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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