The term “cameo” comes from the Latin word “cammaeus”, itself derived from the Greek word “kamaia”, meaning “decorative object”. Cameos are carved gems, often in relief, which have been popular throughout the ages, notably in Antiquity, the Renaissance and the Victorian era.
This cherub symbolizes love and romance, with classic attributes such as wings and a bow. The letter he holds adds a narrative dimension, suggesting a message of love.
“Holy Spirit” pendant in silver designed in 1781 in Alençon finely set with diamonds of Alençon, a setting of the “second life” of the house Maingourd jeweler in Alençon at the end of the 19th century, listed in the departmental archives of the Orne as selling new, old and second-hand jewelry.
France
18th century
Made using the traditional filigree technique typical of 17th-century Spanish craftsmanship the medallion features meticulous work of intertwined silver threads creating complex and detailed openwork designs.
Miniature pendant- double-sided painted fixed under glass representing the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, yellow gold frame decorated with spiral patterns in enamelled polychromy.
Spain
17th century
This Rouen cross is therefore not only a testimony to the skill of the craftsmen of the time, but also a piece steeped in history, embodying the elegance and tradition of Normandy at the crossroads between two centuries.
Miniature on ivory “Portrait of a veiled young woman” mounted in brooch, vermeille frame, bevelled glass protection,
signed Jean-Urbin Guérin, French draftsman and miniature painter (1760-1836).
Early 19th century
France
Cross in 750 thousand yellow gold and rose-cut diamonds.
Dimensions 3 cm x 2 cm
Gross weight 2.4 g
19th century
France
Brooch in hallmarked silver and chiseled vermeil, brilliants and fine pearls, miniature in grisaille on ivory under the glass representing elongated winged putti with flowers in hand, in the style of Piat-Joseph Sauvage.
France
Early 19th century
Cross pendant in yellow gold, set with rhinestones and “diamond of Alençon”.
Normandie, France
19th century