New York, NY
Details
- Styles
- Neoclassical
- Primary Stone Shape
- Uncut
- Pendant Width
- 0 mm
- Primary Stone
- Sardonyx
- Pendant Height
- 2 mm
- Necklace Length
- 0.53 in
- Primary Stone Creation
- Natural
- Period
- 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
Shop Sustainably with Chairish
- Materials
- Sardonyx
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Red
- Condition Notes
- Good Good less
- Description
-
Weight: 46.3 Grams
Stone: Sardonyx Shell
Measurements: 3.45 x 135.28 x 51 mm
Signed: G. Stella.
Circa 1840s. Museum Quality … more Weight: 46.3 Grams
Stone: Sardonyx Shell
Measurements: 3.45 x 135.28 x 51 mm
Signed: G. Stella.
Circa 1840s. Museum Quality Cameo Tiara.
This stunning antique cameo tiara, signed by the master carver G. Stella, is a breathtaking example of artistry and storytelling captured in miniature. Its craftsmanship speaks to the centuries-long legacy of the Stella family, whose skill in carving and engraving on a variety of materials has been celebrated since the 1600s in France.
At the center of the tiara, three cherubs are depicted in lively motion as they carry an exquisitely detailed garland of flowers. Each flower in the garland is rendered with extraordinary precision, showcasing a variety of blooms, from delicate roses with their tightly layered petals to dainty daisies with their slender, radiating petals. The garland is intertwined with fine vines and tiny, veined leaves, giving the composition a sense of natural movement and abundance. The cherubs’ expressions convey the joy and camaraderie of their labor, their tiny hands grasping the garland with convincing grace.
On the left side of the tiara, a cherub is deeply engrossed in sculpting. He leans over his workbench, chiseling what appears to be a miniature representation of the Apollo Belvedere's noble visage. Next to him, a small table holds an oil lamp with an elegantly curving spout, its flickering flame immortalized in shell. At his feet lie a pair of compasses and an additional chisel, symbols of his dedication to his craft and the tools of his trade. His intense focus and delicate touch capture the spirit of a true artisan.
On the right side, another cherub prepares to paint, smoothing a tablet with great care. His gaze is fixed on a sphinx model before him, its enigmatic expression inspiring his next masterpiece. Near him lies a painter’s palette, complete with tiny wells for pigments, and a set of slender brushes, each bristle lovingly carved into the shell. The scene brims with artistic energy, suggesting the anticipation of a new creation about to unfold.
The entire tiara is adorned with intricate embellishments that frame these vignettes. Scrolls of foliage unfurl gracefully across the surface, mingling with swirling clouds that evoke a celestial atmosphere. Every inch of the shell has been meticulously carved, leaving no space untouched by Stella's masterful hand. The overall composition is harmonious, with each element—flowers, cherubs, tools, and celestial motifs—blending seamlessly into an awe-inspiring tableau.
This tiara is not only a masterpiece of cameo carving but also a tribute to the spirit of creativity and craftsmanship. The signature "G. Stella" is a mark of unparalleled quality and artistry, making this piece a treasure of both historical and aesthetic significance. less
New York, NY
Questions about the item?
Featured Promoted Listings
Related Collections
- Sterling Silver Pendant Necklaces
- Green Pendant Necklaces
- Sapphire Pendant Necklaces
- 10K Rose Gold Pendant Necklaces
- Resin Pendant Necklaces
- Coral Pendant Necklaces
- Brown Pendant Necklaces
- Enamel Pendant Necklaces
- Paint Pendant Necklaces
- Crystal Pendant Necklaces
- Shell Pendant Necklaces
- Mother-of-Pearl Pendant Necklaces
- Orange Pendant Necklaces
- Transitional Pendant Necklaces
- Tourmaline Pendant Necklaces
- Boho Chic Pendant Necklaces
- Turquoise Pendant Necklaces
- Traditional Pendant Necklaces
- Art Deco Pendant Necklaces
- Glass Pendant Necklaces
- Victorian Pendant Necklaces
- Pendant Necklaces in Atlanta
- French Pendant Necklaces
- Pendant Necklaces in San Francisco
- Plastic Pendant Necklaces