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Victorian MicroMosaic Scarab Bracelet

on Hold

NWS 1-1570

 

~ This is a splendid example of what Castellani, famed Italian master of 19th century Italian mosaics, called "Archaeological Jewelry". Casa (the House of) Castellani turned out exquisite pieces that mimicked the ancient jewelry of the Etruscans, including the granulation technique. In 1862, Castellani published, "Antique Jewelry and Its Revival" to accompany their display at the London Exhibition.

~ While this bracelet is not signed, it is a lovely example of Italian archaeological jewelry. The scarab motif is a nod to the ancient Egyptians. For them,  the primary association of the beetle was solar and often symbolized the morning or sunrise. The association came from the scarab beetle rolling his dung which represented the sun's movement across the blazing sky. The symbolism of the scarab represented rebirth, fertility and creation.

What is unique about this bracelet are its settings! As you can see, the arms and legs of each beetle are depicted in brass wire, soldered to the mounts of the head and body of the scarab. In these very traditional mosaic bracelets, I've seen heart-shaped settings, as well as rounds, squares and various other shapes. Never have I seen beetles! So, while the tesserae (tiles) are relatively large and crudely done when compared with Castellanis' work (as in the bracelet, shown at right). However, this simple  Victorian bracelet has a charm unique unto itself!

~ Measures 6.75" long and .6" wide.

~ Original hook and loop closure.

c. 1870, in excellent, original condition. No tiles missing.

Price = $235.00on Hold

 b, vict.

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