Shell Cameo - Replica of an Antique
05
days
16
hours
57
minutes
13
seconds
Current bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 500 - € 550
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 Bidder 6432 | €1 |
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Description from the seller
Grand cameo in a seashell depicting Mars and Venus – 19th century
Extraordinary and important museum-quality shell cameo finely engraved, depicting the mythological figures of Mars and Venus, one of the most famous symbolic couples in classical iconography. The subject represents the meeting of strength and beauty: Mars, god of war, recognizable by his crested helmet and spear, flanked by Venus, goddess of love and harmony, portrayed with classical elegance and delicate features.
The myth of the love between Mars and Venus has endured through the centuries, becoming an inexhaustible source of inspiration for poets, painters, and sculptors. In ancient and Neoclassical art this union symbolizes the dialogue between power and grace, between energy and beauty, a theme that has fascinated artists and collectors since antiquity and which in the 19th century found new fortune in the art of cameos.
This specimen strikes with the sculptural quality of the carving. The two figures emerge with great depth from the warm background of the shell, creating a refined chromatic contrast between the milky white relief and the amber tones of the natural support. Mars’ helmet, the spear, the curls of the hair, and the folds of the garments are rendered with extreme precision, demonstrating the skilled hand of a highly specialized engraver.
The composition is harmonious and very balanced: the classical profiles are carved with great elegance, and the lower part is embellished with a decorative cloud-like base that gives movement to the scene. This type of workmanship is typical of the great 19th-century cameos produced within the Italian engraving tradition, particularly between Naples and Torre del Greco, historic centers of excellence in shell work.
The dimensions are substantial for this type: 45 x 36 mm, weighing 8.63 grams, characteristics that make this cameo ideal both for a high-level setting and as a collectible object.
The condition is very good and consistent with the period. From the macro photographs it is possible to notice a very small chip on the tip of the spear, practically imperceptible to the naked eye. In transmitted light you can also observe at the top right some extremely fine natural filaments of the shell, not visible under normal conditions and that do not in any way compromise the stability of the cameo or the visual harmony of the work.
This is a cameo of great charm, capable of containing in a few centimeters all the refinement of 19th-century miniature sculpture and the eternal appeal to classical mythology.
The photos are an integral part of the description. Guaranteed careful packaging entrusted to professionals in the sector.
Seller's Story
Gaudí Interiors – Object selected
Born from a constant pursuit of excellence. We select furnishings and art objects designed for refined interiors, where aesthetics, history, and material coexist in balance. Each piece is chosen to enter spaces with character, intended for those who consider the home an extension of their own identity.
We pay particular attention to packaging, which is carried out to very high professional standards, with a focus on protection during transport.
We use recycled packaging materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising on safety.
Translated by Google TranslateGrand cameo in a seashell depicting Mars and Venus – 19th century
Extraordinary and important museum-quality shell cameo finely engraved, depicting the mythological figures of Mars and Venus, one of the most famous symbolic couples in classical iconography. The subject represents the meeting of strength and beauty: Mars, god of war, recognizable by his crested helmet and spear, flanked by Venus, goddess of love and harmony, portrayed with classical elegance and delicate features.
The myth of the love between Mars and Venus has endured through the centuries, becoming an inexhaustible source of inspiration for poets, painters, and sculptors. In ancient and Neoclassical art this union symbolizes the dialogue between power and grace, between energy and beauty, a theme that has fascinated artists and collectors since antiquity and which in the 19th century found new fortune in the art of cameos.
This specimen strikes with the sculptural quality of the carving. The two figures emerge with great depth from the warm background of the shell, creating a refined chromatic contrast between the milky white relief and the amber tones of the natural support. Mars’ helmet, the spear, the curls of the hair, and the folds of the garments are rendered with extreme precision, demonstrating the skilled hand of a highly specialized engraver.
The composition is harmonious and very balanced: the classical profiles are carved with great elegance, and the lower part is embellished with a decorative cloud-like base that gives movement to the scene. This type of workmanship is typical of the great 19th-century cameos produced within the Italian engraving tradition, particularly between Naples and Torre del Greco, historic centers of excellence in shell work.
The dimensions are substantial for this type: 45 x 36 mm, weighing 8.63 grams, characteristics that make this cameo ideal both for a high-level setting and as a collectible object.
The condition is very good and consistent with the period. From the macro photographs it is possible to notice a very small chip on the tip of the spear, practically imperceptible to the naked eye. In transmitted light you can also observe at the top right some extremely fine natural filaments of the shell, not visible under normal conditions and that do not in any way compromise the stability of the cameo or the visual harmony of the work.
This is a cameo of great charm, capable of containing in a few centimeters all the refinement of 19th-century miniature sculpture and the eternal appeal to classical mythology.
The photos are an integral part of the description. Guaranteed careful packaging entrusted to professionals in the sector.
Seller's Story
Gaudí Interiors – Object selected
Born from a constant pursuit of excellence. We select furnishings and art objects designed for refined interiors, where aesthetics, history, and material coexist in balance. Each piece is chosen to enter spaces with character, intended for those who consider the home an extension of their own identity.
We pay particular attention to packaging, which is carried out to very high professional standards, with a focus on protection during transport.
We use recycled packaging materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising on safety.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Laboratory report
No laboratory report
Estimated period
1800-1850
Metal
Shell
Brand jewellery
No
Total weight
8.63 g
Condition
Good condition - used with some signs of wear
Gender
Unisex
Country of origin
Italy
Title additional information
Replica of an Antique
Width
45 mm
Length
36 mm
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
