Victorian Maenad Cameo Brooch
Maenads*, the female followers of Dionysus, were a popular cameo subject during the 19th century. This exquisite example is carved from a single piece of Bull's Mouth shell, the bust depicted in profile and high relief, utilising the white band of the shell over an orangish-brown background. As was the Maenads' typical 19th century depiction, she wears vine leaves and bunches of grapes entwined in her hair, a diaphanous robe draped over one shoulder, and can be seen gazing upward with a serene look... In mythology, however, they were somewhat different - wild and frenzied women who cavorted with satyrs, devoured raw flesh, and were often found in the throes of rapturous dance brought on by excessive wine consumption.
This brooch dates from the mid Victorian period, circa 1860, featuring a simple gold mount with applied rope-twist border and rub-over setting that follows the contours of the shell's edges.
*they were known as Bacchante to the Romans, followers of Bacchus
Era: Victorian, circa 1860
Size: 5.3cm by 4.6cm
Stone: Bull's Mouth shell
Marks: None, tested as 9ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition, light wear consistent with age
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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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