Wedgwood - Cameo Silver - Black basalt, Tiberius
08
days
00
hours
15
minutes
11
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Laura Trevino
She has 15 years' auction experience, specialising in vintage jewellery from 1920 to 2000.
Estimate € 280 - € 330
No bids placed
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Description from the seller
Neoclassical black basalt cameo “TIBERIUS” – Josiah Wedgwood and Sons Manufacturer – 18th century
Important and refined cameo in black basalt, depicting the profile of the Roman emperor Tiberius, executed according to the purest English neoclassical taste and attributable to the famous Josiah Wedgwood and Sons manufactory, active in the second half of the 18th century.
The relief, of large size and strong visual impact, is made in compact black basalt and finely worked, a distinctive material introduced by Josiah Wedgwood to evoke the severity and elegance of ancient sculpture. The rendition is of the highest level: the profile is sharp, the modeling full and harmonious, with extraordinary attention to anatomical details and to the hairstyle, enriched by the laurel crown, imperial symbol.
Particularly interesting is the presence of the inscription “TIBERIUS” at the base of the bust, a typical element of Wedgwood productions inspired by Roman portraiture, intended for a learned clientele fond of antiquity during the Grand Tour.
The cameo is mounted in a frame presumably in silver (not hallmark), with an elegant sawtooth bezel in triangular motifs that frames the work and enhances its decorative character. The upper brooch pin allows it to be used both as an important pendant and as an exhibit piece.
On the back is visible the stamped mark “WEDGWOOD”, further confirmation of its attribution to the manufactory, though with wear consistent with age.
The substantial dimensions (54 x 45 mm, 65 mm overall with brooch pin) and the weight of 20.56 grams make this specimen particularly notable from a collector’s standpoint, distinguishing it from the more common small-format productions.
In terms of condition, the piece presents in overall excellent condition for its period: there are slight signs of wear and a natural patina on both the basalt and the mounting, elements that attest to its authenticity and history. Minimal close-up surface imperfections do not in any way compromise the aesthetic reading, which remains of great impact and refinement.
From an interior decor and collection perspective, this is an extremely versatile object: perfect in a Grand Tour collection, in a Wunderkammer, or displayed alone on a stand to enhance its sculptural profile. Also ideal in contemporary settings where the contrast between antique and modern creates a very elegant effect.
A specimen of strong character, uniting execution quality, history, and neoclassical charm in a single object.
The photos are an integral part of the description. Guaranteed careful packaging entrusted to sector professionals.
Seller's Story
Gaudíno Collection – Object selected
Born from careful and ongoing research of authentic objects, selected for quality, history, and presence.
The collection brings together items capable of crossing time, chosen to dialogue with space and enhance it.
Each piece is not merely presented, but selected as a distinctive sign, destined for settings with character.
Particular attention is given to packaging, made according to professional standards to guarantee maximum protection during transport.
We use recycled materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising safety.
Translated by Google TranslateNeoclassical black basalt cameo “TIBERIUS” – Josiah Wedgwood and Sons Manufacturer – 18th century
Important and refined cameo in black basalt, depicting the profile of the Roman emperor Tiberius, executed according to the purest English neoclassical taste and attributable to the famous Josiah Wedgwood and Sons manufactory, active in the second half of the 18th century.
The relief, of large size and strong visual impact, is made in compact black basalt and finely worked, a distinctive material introduced by Josiah Wedgwood to evoke the severity and elegance of ancient sculpture. The rendition is of the highest level: the profile is sharp, the modeling full and harmonious, with extraordinary attention to anatomical details and to the hairstyle, enriched by the laurel crown, imperial symbol.
Particularly interesting is the presence of the inscription “TIBERIUS” at the base of the bust, a typical element of Wedgwood productions inspired by Roman portraiture, intended for a learned clientele fond of antiquity during the Grand Tour.
The cameo is mounted in a frame presumably in silver (not hallmark), with an elegant sawtooth bezel in triangular motifs that frames the work and enhances its decorative character. The upper brooch pin allows it to be used both as an important pendant and as an exhibit piece.
On the back is visible the stamped mark “WEDGWOOD”, further confirmation of its attribution to the manufactory, though with wear consistent with age.
The substantial dimensions (54 x 45 mm, 65 mm overall with brooch pin) and the weight of 20.56 grams make this specimen particularly notable from a collector’s standpoint, distinguishing it from the more common small-format productions.
In terms of condition, the piece presents in overall excellent condition for its period: there are slight signs of wear and a natural patina on both the basalt and the mounting, elements that attest to its authenticity and history. Minimal close-up surface imperfections do not in any way compromise the aesthetic reading, which remains of great impact and refinement.
From an interior decor and collection perspective, this is an extremely versatile object: perfect in a Grand Tour collection, in a Wunderkammer, or displayed alone on a stand to enhance its sculptural profile. Also ideal in contemporary settings where the contrast between antique and modern creates a very elegant effect.
A specimen of strong character, uniting execution quality, history, and neoclassical charm in a single object.
The photos are an integral part of the description. Guaranteed careful packaging entrusted to sector professionals.
Seller's Story
Gaudíno Collection – Object selected
Born from careful and ongoing research of authentic objects, selected for quality, history, and presence.
The collection brings together items capable of crossing time, chosen to dialogue with space and enhance it.
Each piece is not merely presented, but selected as a distinctive sign, destined for settings with character.
Particular attention is given to packaging, made according to professional standards to guarantee maximum protection during transport.
We use recycled materials, with respect for the environment, without compromising safety.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Laboratory report
No laboratory report
Brand
Wedgwood
Estimated period
18th century
Metal
Silver
Brand jewellery
Yes
Total weight
20.56 g
Condition
Good condition - used with some signs of wear
Gender
Unisex
Country of origin
United Kingdom
Title additional information
Black basalt, Tiberius
Width
45 cm
Length
54 cm
Sold by
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Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every object in line with our submission guidelines. While we strive to provide a detailed description and photographs of each jewellery object, discrepancies or inaccuracies may occur. It is your responsibility to review all of the information provided about an object, including the condition and description, before placing an order. Sellers are responsible for the information, pictures and description provided, including the quality, quantity and nature of the jewelry supplied. A small imperfection that cannot be seen in the photo but is included in the description is not a non-conformity. A Lab Report is not a guarantee, valuation or appraisal regarding the articles described therein. A Lab Report contains only the characteristics of an article described after it has been graded, tested, examined, and analyzed using the techniques and equipment used at the time of the examination from that specific Lab. The results of any other examination performed on the article may differ depending when, how, by whom and with which grading standard the article is examined. In addition, any changes and improvements in techniques and equipment that may have occurred which may enable the examiner to detect, among other things, the use of processes for altering the characteristics of an article which use was previously undetectable, does not automatically mean the object does not conform to its description.
Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every object in line with our submission guidelines. While we strive to provide a detailed description and photographs of each jewellery object, discrepancies or inaccuracies may occur. It is your responsibility to review all of the information provided about an object, including the condition and description, before placing an order. Sellers are responsible for the information, pictures and description provided, including the quality, quantity and nature of the jewelry supplied. A small imperfection that cannot be seen in the photo but is included in the description is not a non-conformity. A Lab Report is not a guarantee, valuation or appraisal regarding the articles described therein. A Lab Report contains only the characteristics of an article described after it has been graded, tested, examined, and analyzed using the techniques and equipment used at the time of the examination from that specific Lab. The results of any other examination performed on the article may differ depending when, how, by whom and with which grading standard the article is examined. In addition, any changes and improvements in techniques and equipment that may have occurred which may enable the examiner to detect, among other things, the use of processes for altering the characteristics of an article which use was previously undetectable, does not automatically mean the object does not conform to its description.
