CASTELLANI, ETRUSCAN REVIVAL, YELLOW GOLD AND HARDSTONE CAMEO BROOCH

Containing one carved hardstone cameo depicting a male profile, with wirework surround. 1 1/2 x 1 3/16 inches.
Stamp: (maker's mark)(Vatican hallmark).
Gross weight: 10.80 dwt.

Fortunato Pio Castellani opened a jewelry store in Rome in 1814. He was inspired by his friend, historian and artist Michelangelo Caetani, to replicate ancient goldsmithing techniques. In 1836, Castellani was invited to study the jewelry unearthed from the Etruscan Regolini-Galassi tombs. Fortunato Pio and his sons Augusto and Alessandro continued to research and revive the ancient granulation and wirework techniques used in ancient Roman pieces and incorporated micromosaics, scarabs and cameos in the designs. Castellani jewelry increased in popularity as the archaeological revival styles of the Victorian era were in vogue in the 1860s and 1870s. The company participated in several world’s fairs and the stores became a shopping destination for tourists visiting Italy.

Measurements: The brooch measures approximately 1 1/2 inches by 1 3/16 inches.

Overall Condition: There is discoloration to the gold. The Vatican hallmark indicates 18 karat gold. The clasp on the brooch fitting is not original.

All lots are sold “AS IS”. Please contact the jewelry department at [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Please note that measurements and opinions on gems are given as a courtesy and are approximated. It is recommended you talk to a specialist or view items in person before placing a bid. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Sally Klarr, GG

Director, Senior Specialist, Jewelry & Watches

[email protected]312.334.4215

Ms. Klarr’s passion for jewelry began when she saw the gem collection at the Smithsonian at age 13, and she has since cultivated an expertise in jewelry and its history. She began her career at Christie’s as a Junior Specialist and went on to join Marshall Pierce & Co. in Chicago, culminating in a decade of experience in the auction business, VIP relations, and jewelry and luxury marketing. She earned her Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America in New York and is a graduate of Hillsdale College.

Katie Guilbault, GG

Senior Specialist, Jewelry & Watches

[email protected]858.442.6104

Ms. Guilbault is a Graduate Gemologist and has traveled the country evaluating important jewelry collections including antique, period and contemporary pieces. She first joined the firm in 2003, where she became the Director of Jewelry & Watches and Director of Consignments. In 2007, Katie joined Trabert & Hoeffer as an appraiser and sales associate. Following her time at Trabert & Hoeffer, Katie launched a jewelry consulting business, providing fine jewelry appraisal and custom design services. She returned to Freeman's in 2017 as a Senior Specialist of Jewelry & Watches. Katie brings a wealth of valuation experience to Southern California, as she establishes Freeman's expanded presence on the West Coast.

Ruth Thuston, GG

Senior Specialist, Jewelry & Watches

[email protected]312.447.3268

Ms. Thuston brings to Freeman's over 20 years’ experience in antique, period and estate jewelry having facilitated the selling process for thousands of clients. Her career includes opening the Chicago jewelry department at Heritage Auctions and directing the Chicago office of CIRCA for twelve years. Earlier in her career she sold jewelry and watches for two of Chicago’s leading jewelers, CD Peacock and Sidney Garber. She is a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America and has a Bachelor of Arts in music from Albion College. Ms. Thuston has received national and chapter awards for her work with the Women’s Jewelry Association and is an executive board member of the Chicago History Museum Costume Council, a candidate member of the National Association of Jewelry appraisers (NAJA), a voting member of the Accredited Gemologist Association (AGA) and member of The American Society of Jewelry Historians.

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CASTELLANI, ETRUSCAN REVIVAL, YELLOW GOLD AND HARDSTONE CAMEO BROOCH

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