French banded-agate cameo pendant c.1860

This French pendant from the 1860s (Napoleon III period) is crafted in 18k gold, decorated with black enamel, and set with diamonds and a banded agate cameo.

At the center of the circular pendant is a female profile cameo carved from banded agate. The cameo frame is decorated with black enamel lines and set with rose-cut diamonds.

This type of female profile cameo can be considered alongside the mid-19th-century European Neoclassical context in which Greco-Roman figures were re-referenced. The circular composition, symmetrical setting, and multi-tiered frame correspond to framing-based design conventions commonly seen at the time. The combination of black enamel and diamonds is also found in contemporary goldwork.

The pendant is in good antique condition, showing normal oxidation and signs of wear; oxidation is more noticeable in areas on the reverse. The enamel decoration and the cameo carving show little to no loss. As condition assessments are subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to review further details.