Neoclassical "The Muses" Cameo Bracelet
An exquisite neoclassical Parian Ware cameo bracelet depicting the seven (of the nine) classical muses. The cameos are mounted in 15ct gold oval bezels to form panels, linked with short lengths of gold chain with a concealed tongue clasp slotting behind the final figure. It dates from the early Victorian period, circa 1850, an especially fine and early example of Parian Ware: a fine style of biscuit porcelain, developed around 1845. The Staffordshire manufacturer Mintons claimed to have first created the medium in order to simulate the appearance of the white marble favoured by sculptors since the Greek archaic period. It was named after the Greek island of Paros which was renowned for its fine-textured, white marble, however there is come contention over quite which of the "very eminent" pottery firms first perfected Parian... the judges at the Great Exhibition of 1851 noting that:
"... the Jury find that they could not recommend an award of the Council Medal for the invention of Parian without deciding on the disputed claim of priority between the very eminent firms, who severally advanced that claim with equal confidence. We have not felt it our duty to come to any such decision; especially as it would appear from the statement of each party that, whichever may have actually been first in publicly producing articles in this material both were contemporaneously working with success towards the same result."
But why not the full compliment of muses? A certain element of pragmatism over idealism would be my best guess... the bracelet would be far too long with an extra two panels, and although smaller panels could have been used the overall impact of the piece would have been significantly diminished. The two absentee muses also presents a unique conversation point...
The classical muses were nine goddesses in Greek mythology were believed to inspire creativity, often invoked by artists, writers, and musicians to help with their work. They were also associated with the arts and sciences and were seen as the guardians of knowledge and wisdom. They were considered the daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, the goddess of memory, with each muse believed to be responsible for a different field of creative endeavour. They were: Calliope; Clio; Erato, love poetry; Euterpe, music; Melpomene, tragedy; Polyhymnia, sacred poetry; Terpsichore, dance; Thalia, comedy; and Urania, astronomy. Their Roman counterparts were known as the Camenae, and their influence can still be seen in literature, art, and music to this day.
Era: Early Victorian, circa 1850
Length: 8 inches
Panels: 2.9cm by 2.2cm
Marks: None, tested as 15ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition. Minimal signs of wear. An acid test mark to the side of one of the bezel frames.
Full appraisal document provided with each item.
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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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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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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