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608 - STUNNING CASTELLANI-INSPIRED ITALIAN GOLD NECKLACE WITH TWEN…

Estimate £12,000 - £20,000
Sale commission
Description
STUNNING CASTELLANI-INSPIRED ITALIAN GOLD NECKLACE WITH TWENTY-THREE ROMAN INTAGLIOS Ca. 19th century AD. A Neoclassical gold necklace, conceived in the archaeological revival taste associated with the Castellani family, is set with Roman intagli in carnelian, chalcedony, nicolo and multi-layered agate. The graduated gems are held within rope-twist settings, articulated by openwork links and finely worked filigree rosettes enriched with granulated details. Dominating the composition is a large multi-layered agate cameo portraying Alexander the Great, whose idealised profile is defined through the skilful use of the stoneÕs contrasting white and greyish-lilac strata. Three articulated pendants descend from the cameo, each incorporating a smaller engraved gem and terminating in an openwork palmette-shaped drop. The intagli present a learned repertory of Graeco-Roman subjects. The divine figures include Mars, Minerva, Mercury, Jupiter, Hercules and Venus Victrix, whilst the secular and emblematic imagery comprises imperial and female portraits, a cockerel, a marine creature and eagles associated with Roman military authority. The alternation of translucent red, pale, banded and dark stones creates a sophisticated chromatic rhythm, directing the eye towards the monumental central cameo. The ropework, filigree and granulated ornament reflect the nineteenth-century revival of ancient goldsmithing techniques popularised by the Castellani family and their circle, without implying a direct attribution. Preserved in very good overall condition, with light surface wear, minor scratches and occasional small abrasions consistent with age; the engravings remain notably clear and the elaborate articulated mounting retains its rich definition. For similar see: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Object Number: 99.33.1.British Museum number 1978,1002.426; 1978,1002.127 Size: 200/400mm x 36mm; Weight: 93g Provenance: UK private collection; formerly in a Paris-based collection formed during the 1970s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.
About the sale FINE ANCIENT JEWELLERY AND BEADS - THE PRINCE COLLECTION
Auction location
Auction time 10/03/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits:
Apollo Art Auctions Ltd
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