Description
A magnificent Georgian museum quality Agate cameo of a Bacchante signed Morelli for the workshop of Nicola Morelli (1771 – 1838). Morelli is well known for producing cameos commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte and the Bonaparte family. Similar cameos by Morelli may be seen in the Metropolitan Museum in New York and the British Museum in London. The agate cameo is encased in a 18K gold bezel encrusted with 8 rubies and seed peals. The cameo is exquisitely carved in relief depicting the classic profile of a lovely Roman woman wearing a fruiting vine wreath and ribbon in her wavy hair. The back has a hidden bottom bail that was used to hang small embellishments like ribbon or chain. The bezel is surrounded by an intricately chased border that enhances the delicate look of this brooch.
Weight:
13.5 dwt 22 grams