Victorian Cupid Cameo Ring
Victorian ring set with a malachite cameo depicting Cupid playing the double pipes, a subject that appears numerous times in the archaeological record (such as this Roman lamp in the British Museum and these two from MFA Boston: ring, oil flask). Crafted in 15 carat gold with a simple cut down setting, this ring dates from the mid Victorian period, circa 1870.
The double pipes, or the Aulos, were said to have been created by Athena to mimic the wails of the Gorgon sisters after Medusa was slain, before being picked up by the satyr Marsyas who, having become proficient in the instrument, challenged Apollo to a contest with his lyre. Apollo was the victor and, making an example of his hubris, punished Marsyas rather severely... so what's the message here? Athena lacked the skill (read: practise) to play the pipes so it sounded horrible; Marsyas mastered the instrument and got it sounding almost as good as Apollo's famous lyre; Cupid picking them up and playing them = love conquers all?
Tuned a fourth apart, these pipes are presumed to have been used in rituals, theatre, therapy and/or amusement. Here's a contemporary Aulos performance based on the Louvre Aulos found in Egypt. And another based on the Poseidonia Aulos. [Yes, I've just been down an ancient music and instruments rabbit-hole on Youtube].
Era: Victorian, circa 1870
Ring size: R or 8.5 US. Resizeable for £55
Head size: 14.8mm by 10.5mm
Stone: Malachite
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)
Shipping
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, 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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An inscription can be added inside the band, where space allows. Add 2-3 weeks to shipping times
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