Antique Shell & 21k Yellow Gold Three Graces Cameo Brooch c.1880

A magnificent, fine and impressive, large antique Victorian shell and 21 karat yellow gold three graces cameo brooch; part of our cameo jewellery collection. This magnificent and large antique Victorian brooch has been crafted in 21k yellow gold. The oval shaped frame is ornamented to the centre with an exceptional and finely carved shell cameo depicting the three Graces*. The collet setting to the shell panel is encompassed with a rope twist decorated border. The feature setting is encircled with an impressive oval frame featuring plain ball designs to the cardinal points and accented with further interlacing rope twist designs. This large Victorian cameo brooch secures to the reverse with a hinged pin and safety clasp fastening. This antique brooch has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 21 karat gold; this indicates the high quality of the piece. This magnificent brooch is fitted to the original hinged presentation box, with a satin and velvet lined interior; this original box is a fine and beneficial feature of the piece. The interior of the box bears the retailer's mark 'J&W Marshall, 41 George Street, Edinburgh'. This magnificent brooch is the finest of its type you could hope to acquire. A cameo brooch is a refined gift for admirers of antique elegance, classical art and antique craftsmanship. Ideal for collectors, traditionally stylish women or those in the arts, it suits occasions such as birthdays, weddings or anniversaries-offering heirloom-worthy beauty with timeless appeal. * The three Graces, sometimes referred to as muses, are the three daughters of Zeus: Euphrosyne (cheerfulness), Thalia (festive joy) and Aglaia (the shining one); within European art they are typically depicted as a trio and in a dancing formation. This brooch depicts a variation inspired by the late 18th century interpretive work of the Italian Neoclassical sculptor, Canova, who presented the three Graces forward facing, with flowing robes and a wreath of roses twisted and held over the head of the central figure.