Australian antique

In Greek mythology, Athena was the daughter of Zeus and was the Goddess of Wisdom, and here is a truly exceptional early Australian cameo brooch depicting Athena. Dating from the 1860's, there are two wonderful features of this brooch. Firstly there is the exceptional quality of the hand carving of Athena, and the closer you get, the more detail you will see which is a true testament to the quality of the carver of this cameo, especially as it was done well over a century ago. More than likely this was hand carved in Italy, the home of all the master carvers of shell cameo and with so much intricate detail, that gets even more impressive the closer you get to it . The cameo itself measures 50.7mm by 42.5mm and will captivate all who see it from near or far. And secondly there is the fabulous mount that it is set into. Made in 15 carat gold, not only is the work typical of early Australian jewellery that is so sought after with the grape designs on each side along with the leaf pattern, but at the top is an emu which stands so proudly. This mount is truly one of the finest early Australian ones that you will ever find and a wonderful and exciting piece. Measuring 73mm by 60mm this is not only so incredibly rare to find, but just as incredibly beautiful and a real treasure not to just admire, but to wear as well.   Stock# ES9357 Circa: 1865 $7,250