Antique Signed Cameo c 1840 with Provenance: Estate of Peter Hansen, Designer for Stickley Furniture

Romantic and breathtaking...gift perfect.... 

This is a large, exceedingly beautiful example of a hand carved cameo. It is in high, three-dimensional relief and dates to c 1840. The etched signature of the master carver, Bennel, is on the reverse. The cameo has a sterling silver and 14k gold bezel mounting. It may be worn as either pendant or brooch. This lovely piece has been identified through a certified ASA appraiser. 

Approximately 175 years old, the cameo is made from queen conch shell. The artfully carved design is of an elegant woman, a bacchante or a devotee of Bacchus, who was the god of wine and also the patron deity of the theatre. 

Obvious design characteristics point to when this cameo was made. These are the bacchante’s long classic nose as well as her up swirled hair, surrounded by a laurel of leaves and grapes. Early shell cameos also have a softly arched silhouette, and this relatively large example feels amazingly sleek and graceful when cupped into the palm of your hand. 

This special brooch or pendant also has a fascinating historical provenance. It comes from the estate of Peter Hansen, who was the chief furniture designer to Gustav Stickley. Hansen's wife, Ruth, was an artist as well as architectural draftsman for Stickley. It is believed that she may have worn this cameo. 

The condition is excellent to near mint. 
It requires cleaning by a knowledgeable professional familiar with the unique requirements of antique cameos.  There are neither chips nor cracks. In the light, the cameo appears quite luminous and beautiful. The back has Bennel's etched signature beneath the sturdy pin with c-clasp and one may require a jewelers loop to view this. The bezel mount has a ring attached so that the cameo may be worn as a pendant. The mounting appears to be original. The reverse side has a gold wash over the interior silver mounting. This has worn thin from wear but does not detract from the overall appearance in any way, in my opinion.

The cameo measures approximately 1.5 inches or 4 cm by 2 inches or slightly over 5 cm. 

Not only will this cameo appeal to anyone who loves historical antique jewelry, but the piece would make a nice addition in an exhibit or collection that might involve the Hansen provenance.