STYLE
ERA
French banded-agate cameo brooch of a Bacchante c.1860
This French cameo brooch, dating from the 1860s, is crafted in 18k gold and set with pearls and diamonds. The figure depicted is a Bacchante, a follower of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine.
In Roman mythology, Bacchus is the god of wine, ecstasy, abundance, and fertility. His followers, known as Bacchantes or priestesses of Bacchus, honored him by reaching states of ecstasy through drinking and dancing. Their worship reflected the deep connection to Bacchus’s domain, symbolizing the intertwining of human and divine.
The Bacchantes embody the duality found in human nature and society—reason and irrationality, repression and liberation, civilization and wildness. Their unrestrained states often conveyed a sense of danger and destruction. This rich symbolism made Bacchantes a frequent source of inspiration in painting, sculpture, and jewelry design.
The brooch showcases intricate craftsmanship, highlighting both the symbolic elements of the Bacchante and the layered qualities of banded agate. The contrast between the vivid orange background and the sharply defined figure creates a striking visual effect, with almost no visible transition between the two layers. Through skillful layering, the peach-colored bands bring out the lifelike textures of the figure's radiant skin and voluminous hair. The flowing curls exude wild energy, while the hair is adorned with grapevines and leaves, capturing the Bacchante’s beauty and frenzied vitality.
The gold frame is further adorned with lustrous pearls and sparkling old-cut diamonds, enhancing the overall design with a harmonious balance of materials, craftsmanship, and symbolic expression.
The brooch is in good antique condition, with normal signs of oxidation and wear. There are numerical and textual engravings on the back of the agate. As condition assessments can be subjective, please click and enlarge the photos to view more details for your own evaluation.