A lion head camellia offered by The Illuminations.
The gallery The Illuminations Will soon present a remarkable antique cameo in the shape of a tiger eye depicting a lion's head.
Italy (probably Milan) Around 1600
Modern gold frame
Or, tiger eye (cat's eye)
Weight 17.8 g
Dimensions: 25.2 mm x 31.5 mm x 15.4 mm
© Les Enluminures
First of all, it should be noted that this cameo once belonged to one of the most renowned collectors of precious stones of the 18th century. In fact, its first owner The baron Philipp von Stosch (1691-1757) was a prominent collector and antiquarian from Prussia who lived in Rome and Florence.
It should be noted that he amassed a collection of 3500 precious stones.
What is exciting about The Illuminations, It’s being able to go back in time in this way. To discover details that will guide and confirm research. For example, we know that this collector from another era had people working some artists to document his jewels. Fascinatingly, one of these drawings by Pier Leone Ghezzi, in collaboration with Hieronymus Odam, seems to depict this cameo. This drawing was originally held in the vast pictorial archives of Stosch. It is now housed in the Czartoryski Princes Museum in Krakow.
Subsequently, this cameo passed into the hands of other major collectors, such as those of Johann Lorenz Natter, a gem engraver and German expert on medals. Then, it was acquired by Georges Spencer, the 4th Duke of Marlborough. It is said that the exceptional quality of the engraving caught the duke's eye.
Italy (probably Milan) Around 1600
Modern gold frame
Or, tiger eye (cat's eye)
Weight 17.8 g
Dimensions: 25.2 mm x 31.5 mm x 15.4 mm
© Les Enluminures
In this regard, this cameo probably comes from northern Italy, in Milan. Indeed, at that time this region was renowned for its high-quality glyptics. European courts are looking for these Milanese masters. It is undeniable that the work done to sculpt the lion’s head is comparable to the sculptures of the’Miseroni's workshop. More specifically, the way the glazier enhances the translucency of the precious stone. Giving expressiveness to the remarkable lion.
In summary, it is a remarkable piece both for the quality of the engraving and the beauty of the gem. A wonderful opportunity to appreciate a work done during the Renaissance era. In reality, ancient cameos are an important reminder of the importance of history and culture in the creation and meaning of jewelry. Undoubtedly, they represent a precious cultural heritage that continues to inspire.
