Victorian Shell Cameo Brooches

I attended an estate auction in my home state of Maine where I acquired the following scenic cameos. These lovely brooches belonged to Edith Atkins, a well known Winchester, NH historian. These are authentic antique pieces dating from the Victorian Era. When you adorn yourself with an antique such as one of these lovelies you are not only wearing a piece of jewelry that a Victorian lady once wore, you are also showcasing small framed works of art. They are all variations of the Victorian cameo "Rebecca by the Well" theme that was popular at the time. This term is used to describe scenes with a woman, house and tree.

Cameo #1: Serene Woman Sitting by Stream

This piece is beautifully hand carved. A lady is seated in front of a small house looking out onto a stream. It's a very lovely and serene image as she gazes into the distance. A tree can be seen as well as a house.

The back has a working "c" clasp. There are no cracks in the shell. The gold-filled twisted rope frame has bits of tarnish like many pieces from the 1800's- I'm leaving any polishing to the new owner. Measures approximately 2 inches.

Sorry, this item is no longer available.

 

Cameo #2: Grieving Women Walking from Tomb

Victorian mourning jewelry was used as a way to honor the deceased. At auction this was labeled as a "tomb" cameo. You can see two women walking away from an above ground tomb, and they are not walking together which is striking. I am impressed by the details- you can see the iron gate inside the mausoleum, an "x" on one of the windows, and a foot path leading over a stream. Also we can see lush trees which is indicative of a Victorian "garden cemetery." The overall feel of this art is somber, appropriate for mourning jewelry.

The back has a working "c" clasp. There are some light scratches on the back but no cracks in the shell. The gold-filled frame has bits of tarnish like many pieces from the 1800's- I'm leaving any polishing to the new owner. Measures approximately 2 inches.

Sorry, this item is no longer available.

Terms of Sale: First bought, first sold basis. I ship to the US only. Antiques are described to the best of my ability. If you believe I have grossly misrepresented an item I will refund your purchase price if you first notify me via email within one business day of delivery and I grant a return authorization. Any returned items must be in the same condition as originally sold to you. You pay for shipping the item back, insured. My company Hillstock has been in business for five years selling vintage collectibles and I have only had very satisfied customers! My contact information will be on your receipt. Buy with confidence! ~Averyl

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