15k Gold Victorian 'Horses of the Sun' Cameo

Victorian, C18

This super quality antique English brooch is mounted in solid 15 carat gold and dates back to the 1880's, a time when craftsmanship was paramount. The centrepiece of the brooch is a very finely hand-carved cameo depicting the Hours leading the Horses of the Sun, a scene rich with classical symbolism and artistry.
In Greek mythology, the Hours, or Horae, are goddesses representing natural order and the seasons, often shown guiding the sun's daily journey across the sky, symbolizing time, order, and harmony. The Horses of the Sun symbolize Helios' chariot, representing light and the relentless march of time. Cameo carving, an art dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, saw a resurgence in the 19th-century Victorian era, reflecting a fascination with classical antiquity. This brooch, with its intricate craftsmanship, is a testament to the high-quality standards and aesthetic preferences of the Victorian period. 

MATRIALS

15k Gold

Natural Shell

DIMENSIONS

62 x 51 mm

WEIGHT

 27.0 grams

MARKS 

Not marked, tests as 15k Gold

CONDITION

Excellent