A Neoclassical Onyx Cameo Set In Gold Ring — Bust Of Sappho

Cameo 20 × 26 mm (0.79 × 1.02 in)
Solid gold - US size 8; UK size Q -  grossweight 16,80 g
Early 19th century

Elegant neoclassical cameo in onyx depicting the bust of the poetess Sappho, in profile facing right. The hairstyle, characteristic of ancient iconography, is held by three bands and gathered at the back by a sort of sakkos (net or cap), yet allowing the hair to emerge at the top of the head.

This refined portrait belongs to the tradition of 19th-century neoclassical cameos, in which Italian engravers excelled at reproducing effigies of illustrious figures from Antiquity. Comparison with a sardonyx cameo signed by Niccolò Amastini (Wartski collection), also depicting Sappho, reveals striking stylistic similarities, suggesting a common inspiration or possible attribution to this workshop.

The cameo is set in a solid gold ring with a finely chiselled mount that enhances the preciousness of the whole.

Each piece of jewellery is delivered with an authentification certificate signed by Bianca Massard and Gabriele Vangelli de Cresci experts, including additional documentation if existing and exhaustive description of the piece.
Pictures are part of the description and show state of conservation of the item. For additional pictures please contact us.