Description:

European, Neoclassical/Victorian, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A large oval agate intaglio, masterfully carved with a complex mythical scene and set in a gorgeous brooch - the floral decorative frame comprised of 90% silver and inlaid with diamond chips, the inner border engraved with flowing tendril motifs and comprised of a gold, silver, copper alloy. The exceptionally well -executed engraving features Vulcan (Greek Hephaestus) - god of blacksmiths, artisans, metallurgy, and fire - sitting upon a rocky outcrop and hammering a piece with a flaming fire in the background at the center. A winged erote is behind Vulcan's back, with a nude goddess, perhaps Venus (Greek Aphrodite) pointing toward him as she holds a billowing cloak behind her voluptuous figure to the left, and a proud Mars (Greek Ares), god of war, dressed in Hoplite fashion and holding a spear and a torch to the right. No doubt carved by a master! The consignor paid over $20,000 for this piece more than a decade ago. Size: intaglio measures 2.125" W x 1.25" H (5.4 cm x 3.2 cm); 2.625" W x 2.25" H (6.7 cm x 5.7 cm) including setting; total weight: 35.2 grams.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s

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#135498

  • Condition: Small scuff to left of intaglio, otherwise excellent. Intaglio is Roman; surrounding brooch setting Neoclassical/Victorian. Pin on back for attaching to garment.

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March 21, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000