Roman Imperial Shell Cameo, Copper Setting

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A lovely cameo finely carved from a seashell and framed by an oval copper setting. The cameo depicts the bust of a female beauty wearing a cloak or himation around her shoulders, her head in profile, her sensitively rendered visage with delicate facial features, and hair pulled back to a chignon. In addition to the finely delineated details the lady's visage, we love the way the blush red areas of the shell highlight her coiffure as well as her garment - and also make for a lovely contrast with the otherwise creamy white hues of the shell. Size: 1.1" L x .875" W (2.8 cm x 2.2 cm)

Provenance: ex Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA acquired before 2000

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#158841
Condition Report: Some root marks and stable fissures to the cameo as shown. Image is vivid and finely carved. Copper surround has developed a warm patina over the years.