Cleopatra and the Asp Carved Cameo - Antique Egyptian Revival Brooch
How did she die? IN art or historic minds one way or another Cleopatra died by suicide and in this depiction it was with the Asp. the Snake crossing her chest and biting her on the breast. At first this may look as though it's a fringe of her dress but as you can see by the diadem in the hair, the likeness of her profile and actual snake crossing her chest, the venomous bite is evident.
This Cameo is carved from natural shell, possibly what is known as helmet shell.
The carving itself has the snake, known as an Asp, crossing Cleopatra's chest.
The frame is being sold as yellow gold filled, although there are markings on the needle, the 10K acid does dissolve but some of the scratch is left. This may indicate a lower carat gold but as stated, we have a gold filled frame.
Based on the carving style, tube hinge and c-clasp, we're judging this pin to be in the Egyptian Revival period of the early 20th century, or the 1920s.
Thank you -
🛠 Materials & Details
Era: 1920s
Material(s): Yellow gold filled, carved shell
Gemstone(s): None
Closure Type: C-clasp
Markings/Hallmarks: Illegible and are on the pin itself
🕰 Condition Notes
This piece is in [very good antique condition, there is slight dent in the upper left side of the bezel] Minor signs of wear include [light surface scratches, patina, age-related marks]
🎁 Packaging
Your order will arrive very carefully packed. We take great care to make sure your purchase arrives in the exact condition that it leaves us. We use cardboard, bubble wrap, shrink-wrap, and bubble envelopes to do our best to ensure a safe arrival.
