Georgian Old Masters Grand Tour Cameo Bracelet

$3,500.00

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Georgian Old Masters Grand Tour Cameo Bracelet

$3,500.00

Description

DATE: Georgian, c.1820

This remarkable Georgian Grand Tour bracelet is made up of eight hand carved cameos, still in the same amazing condition from when they were once carved. Each cameo features a profile of an old master, and in this case we have: Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian and Raphael (?). Italy has been the epicentre of European art for centuries, with Italian artists contributing a massive amount of work to our cultural history- Can you spot any others? They're connected by fine gold chains, topped with gold pommel links, fastening with a concealed clasp. It has a wearable length of 6.3 inches, modelled in 15 karat gold and dating to circa 1820.

Crossing the channel and into continental Europe, British tourists in the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries were among a new wave of pleasure travellers. It was a privilege enjoyed by the upper classes, giving them an opportunity to immerse themselves in European culture and return home with new ideas, perspectives and "souvenirs". The term ‘Grand Tour’ comes from the 17^th century travel writer, Richard Lessels, who mentioned term in his book "Voyage to Italy", in 1670. This clearly made an impact upon young British men, and they sought educational and cultural enlightenment. Overall, this ring, a very scarce and high quality piece of history.

STONES

Shell Cameo

MEASUREMENTS

6.2 inches wearable length

2.1 x 1.7cm (cameos)

WEIGHT

14.9g

MARKS

No marks present, tests as 15k gold

CONDITION

Very good, light wear commensurate with age