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Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820

£2,595.00 £0.00
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🌅 Aurora, Goddess of the Dawn — Important Italian Neoclassical Shell Cameo Brooch, c.1820

✨ A Masterpiece of Georgian Artistry and Myth

🕰️ Details

  • Medium: Hand-carved shell cameo

  • Mount: Original pinchbeck scrollwork frame

  • Dimensions: 7.8 × 5.2 × 1.5 cm

  • Weight: 20.6 g

  • Date: Circa 1820 (Late Georgian)

  • Origin: Italian (likely Torre del Greco)

🌄 Description

An exceptional late Georgian cameo brooch depicting Aurora, the Roman goddess of the dawn, as she ascends the heavens in her two-horse chariot.
Exquisitely hand-carved from natural shell, this neoclassical composition radiates motion and light — Aurora’s robes billow in the breeze as her steeds rear skyward. The creamy white relief contrasts beautifully against the honey-golden ground, evoking the first rays of morning sunlight.

The cameo is housed in its original pinchbeck frame, richly detailed with scrolling and beaded ornamentation. It retains its C-clasp and long pin, hallmarks of authentic early 19th-century craftsmanship.

A jewel of grace, mythology, and fine Italian artistry — a luminous emblem of renewal and eternal beauty. 🌞

🏛️ Mythology & Symbolism

In Roman myth, Aurora (Eos to the Greeks) rises from the sea each morning to usher in the dawn, scattering darkness and bringing light to the world. She embodies hope, new beginnings, and the triumph of light over shadow — sentiments cherished in Georgian art and poetry.

In the neoclassical era, Aurora became a favored subject for cameos, admired for her poetic charm and allegorical resonance. To wear her likeness was to carry a symbol of awakening and optimism — ideals that still speak to us today.

⚜️ Frame & Craftsmanship

  • Material: Original 19th-century pinchbeck (gold-toned copper–zinc alloy)

  • Design: Finely hand-finished scrollwork and beaded edging

  • Construction: C-clasp and extended pin typical of c.1820 mounts

  • Patina: Warm, even glow consistent with age and authenticity

🧾 Condition Report

✅ Overall: Very good antique condition

  • Cameo: Crisp carving with no cracks or losses

  • Note: Minor natural internal line visible under light, verso only

  • Mount: Original, secure, and well-preserved with gentle age patina

  • Pin & Clasp: Fully functional

  • Box: Modern presentation box included (original not retained)

Professionally curated and authenticated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, confirming its period, craftsmanship, and provenance.

📜 Provenance

From a Private Northern Shire Collection, verified by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, a respected U.K. fine arts gallery.
This documented provenance adds both historical and collectible value, particularly for international collectors.

💠 Collectability & Investment

Large, mythological shell cameos of this calibre are now exceptionally rare.
Comparable examples — especially those in original mounts — have achieved $3,000–$5,000 at leading auctions.
Its artistry, authenticity, and provenance make this a sound investment and a remarkable heirloom for generations to come. 💎

🎁 A Gift of Light and Legacy

More than a jewel — this is wearable art, steeped in symbolism and history.
An unforgettable Christmas, anniversary, or collector’s gift, beautifully presented and ready to delight its next guardian. ❤️✨

Shipping

Worldwide Shipping Available — Professionally packaged and fully insured for secure international delivery.

Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD — Inquire now to secure this unique piece

💰 UK & International Valuation & Description Disclaimer

This description has been prepared in good faith by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD (United Kingdom), based on photographs, measurements, and available market data as of October 2025.
All gemstone and metal identifications have been made by visual assessment in accordance with accepted trade practice for desk-based antique appraisals. No gemmological or metallurgical testing has been undertaken unless stated.

Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD accepts no liability for subsequent variation in valuation, description, or realised prices.

© 2025 Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD – All rights reserved.
Reproduction or quotation from this listing without written permission is prohibited.

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