Layers of meaning are exquisitely carved into layers of fine seashell in this absolute masterpiece of a cameo! A true work of art, this antique cameo beautifully depicts four meticulously detailed figures emerging from the heavens. The most prominent figure is the bust of a maiden dreamily gazing up to an eight pointed star and the crescent moon. Next to her, the goddess Athena, crowned with a wreath of olive branches, looks down towards her thistle-bearing owl. Here, she represents peace, wisdom, and sober reflection, as opposed to Eros, god of desire, who stretches across a cloud in the opposing corner, bearing a bouquet of flowers and a fiery torch. Together these two dieties represent the delicate balance between head and heart. Perhaps this is what the maiden ponders as she gazes up at Venus (the eight-pointed star) and Selene (the crescent moon)! 

• Made in the 1870s
• Set in a 10k yellow gold frame
• Safety replaced around 1910
• Measures 2 1/8 inches wide and 2 1/2 inches long 

Inventory # P19460