Neoclassical "Bathing Venus" Intaglio Pendant
An unusual neoclassical pendant depicting Cupid offering his mother, Venus, a towel as she bathes her feet. Whoever carved it has been astonishingly clever: the slight cloudiness of the chalcedony gives the impression of steam, suggesting the pair are bathing in a steamy caldarium (room with a hot plunge bath).
The subject is reverse intaglio carved into a chalcedony oval, the very slight milkyness of the stone is contrasted with royal blue paint to bring out the Greco-Roman deities. It is a possible reference (with some elaboration) to Giambologna's 1597 bronze sculpture (although the theme of Venus bathing, often accompanied by Cupid, has been explored by many artists over the centuries). The intaglio is mounted in an 18 carat gold locket setting, circa 1870, with a convex rock crystal panel protecting the back.
Era: Victorian, circa 1870
Stones: Intaglio is chalcedony; back is rock crystal
Size: 4.8cm (including bail) by 2.3cm
Marks: None , tested as 18ct gold (bail tested as 15ct)
Condition: Great antique condition, light wear consistent with age including some scuffs to the rock crystal back
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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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[Last updated: August 29th, 2025]
Resizing
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Layaway
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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 or scrape is 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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