Elegant Bacchante Maiden - Large Older Shell Cameo

This is a beautiful unset piece. The subject is a Bacchante Maiden (also known as a Maenads). She is very special since she shows all the ancient symbolism of these fine ladies as found in mythology. The beautiful woman's profile is complete with grapes and grape leaves in her hair, and the staff she is holding is called a thyrsos, which is a staff that is crowned with ivy. One of the most fascinating aspects of this piece is over her left shoulder. There you can see a leopard. The leopard in this carving is carved such that there is actually two different leopards depending upon how you look at her. The Bacchante Maidens are followers of Bacchus, the god of wine and plenty. They were common themes for cameos in ancient times - but given the fine detail of this cameo, it is a great example of one. The carving has very nice detail and hand craftsmanship which extends out to the edges, and the shell coloring is wonderful. The piece appears to be in very good condition. The cameo is oval and measures 2 inches (about 50 mm) by 1 and 1/2 inches (about 40 mm). This piece is currently not for sale, although offers are always welcome.