European, Neoclassical / Victorian, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A large oval agate intaglio, masterfully carved with a complex mythical scene and set in a gorgeous brooch - the floral decorative frame comprised of 90% silver and inlaid with diamond chips, the inner border engraved with flowing tendril motifs and comprised of a gold, silver, copper alloy. The exceptionally well -executed engraving features Vulcan (Greek Hephaestus) - god of blacksmiths, artisans, metallurgy, and fire - sitting upon a rocky outcrop and hammering a piece with a flaming fire in the background at the center. A winged erote is behind Vulcan's back, with a nude goddess, perhaps Venus (Greek Aphrodite) pointing toward him as she holds a billowing cloak behind her voluptuous figure to the left, and a proud Mars (Greek Ares), god of war, dressed in Hoplite fashion and holding a spear and a torch to the right. No doubt carved by a master! The consignor paid over $20,000 for this piece more than a decade ago. Size: intaglio measures 2.125" W x 1.25" H (5.4 cm x 3.2 cm); 2.625" W x 2.25" H (6.7 cm x 5.7 cm) including setting; total weight: 35.2 grams.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s

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#135498

Small scuff to left of intaglio, otherwise excellent. Intaglio is Roman; surrounding brooch setting Neoclassical/Victorian. Pin on back for attaching to garment.