Rare Antique Lava Cameo brooch depicting Jesus, Silver mount

A beautiful and rare antique, mid 19th century Lava Cameo brooch.

It has a typical dark beige tone, finely carved with the side profile of Jesus facing right.

Lava Cameos and Lava stone jewellery rose to fashion in the Grand Tour era, early 19th century, tourists became enamoured with the beautiful Italian creations and many subject matters were used from mythology to royalty and rulers, philosophers and religious figures.

They continued to be a popular choice until later in the 19th century.

Made in Italy from Lava Ash and rock sculpted and carved into fine figures and set into jewellery for those on their grand tour travels to purchase and beautiful souvenirs.

This brooch is very well carved, set into a simple silver mount with a beaded border.

Lava cameos are highly prized and sought after pieces, they are becoming increasingly hard to find in surviving condition particularly those with a rarer subject.

Marks and era:
Mid 19th century, unmarked, mount tests as silver

Condition:
Good used condition overall, light surface wear, commensurate with age, some light surface marks to the reverse, minor nicks to the stone, mount has a fair ding on one side see photos, pin and clasp are base metal.

Approx measurements:
2" length
1.75" width

Weighs approx 27 grams

Any questions or queries please contact us.

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