Posted 3 years ago
Randyc782
(2 items)
This piece is of unknown subject. It has several etches on back of cameo. 1) Aspasia 2) 1771 and then 2 others that can't be determined. The frame is 10k and is a replacement frame, made by enesco which started business in the 1940's I believe. It's been dubbed as a museum quality cameo
Definitely a beauty !~
Although the figure is completely incorrect for ancient Greece, it is likely that 'Aspasia' is the engraver's title for the piece, bringing this formidable character forward in time. She is of a type, bejeweled noble/royal women, that became popular in the late 19th century. She would not have been made in 1771. Below that I see 784. These may be dealer's rather than artist's marks.
What is the material the cameo is made of?
The cameo is cut in banded agate. When it is this color combo it is called sardonyx. 'Hardstone' is the English translation of the Italian pietra dura, a catchall term.