Victorian Carved Shell Bacchus Cameo Brooch

This is a lovely example of a 19th century cameo mounted into a jet surround and depicting a figure with beautiful tendrils of hair entwined with grapes and vine leaves - traditionally signifying Bacchus, the god of wine and festivities, or a Bacchante, one of his followers. The hand carving is so nicely done, executed with real elegance and still lovely and crisp.

No well-to-do Victorian lady's wardrobe was complete without some type of cameo, an accessory which was popularised when wealthy English people brought them home from Italy as souvenirs of their "Grand Tour", particularly once they became a staple of Queen Victoria's dress.

SIZE: Approximately 4.1 x 4.8cm.

WEIGHT: 14.1g.

MATERIALS: Jet, shell, metal pin.

HALLMARKS/STAMPS: None.

CONDITION: The cameo is in very good antique condition, with no chips or cracks to the carved figure. The jet surround has a chip and a few nibbles to the inside edge, and some chips around the clasp plate on the back, but is in good solid condition. Fixes with a sturdy metal clasp.

ERA: Victorian (c.1837-1901).

Antique and vintage boxes photographed are for display only and are not included unless stated in the description.

Please be sure to examine all the photos carefully as they form part of the description, and do feel free to ask if you have any questions, we’re always happy to help where we can!

EU and Northern Ireland deliveries, please be sure to read the GPSR section on our Useful information page.