"Berenice" Cameo

590.00 €

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About this product:

"The Hair of Berenice" by the story of the Greek Poet and Philologist Callimaco

 

The story is that of the hair of Queen Berenice, wife of Ptolemy III Evergete. 
The latter, having just taken power, had to leave Egypt to take part in a military campaign in Syria: 
on that occasion Berenice made a solemn vow to consecrate his beautiful hair to Aphrodite,
if her husband had returned safe and sound. On the return of Ptolemy she kept her promise,
 but the hair disappeared after some time. Conone, the court astronomer, then claimed to have found 
it in the sky in the form of a constellation that to this day is called "Chioma di Berenice".

Genuine hand carved shell cameo
Shell: Cassis Madagascariensis
Cameo Size: 50 mm
Our creations are furnished with certifciate of authenticity

The art of cameo carving

The art of cameo craftsmanship is an ancient form of relief engraving, also known as glyptics, on shells and gemstones, representing an artistic tradition that has captivated humanity for centuries, back to ancient Greeks. This refined technique involves creating raised images, with a darker or colored layer contrasting against a lighter background. Cameos are often used to adorn jewelry, such as pendants, rings, and brooches, but also to embellish artworks and clothing ornaments. 

Beauty and expressive power

Even today, cameo carving is done by hand, continuing to enchant jewelry enthusiasts and collectors, embodying an extraordinary blend of artistic mastery and timeless beauty. It is an ancient art form that serves as a testament to the style and history of the era in which it is created, requiring remarkable skill and precision to depict minute details and craft a highly precious object, whose outstanding artistic and artisanal quality comes to life in the hands that created it.

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