Archaeological-Revival Gold and Hardstone Cameo Brooch, Castellani & G.A. Girardet

Centered by a high relief hardstone cameo of a woman nursing an infant, accompanied by two other children, within a frame of twisted gold wire and granulation accented by 16 round cabochon sapphires, the cameo signed G.A. Girardet for Giorgio Antonio Girardet, the frame with maker's marks for Castellani, loss of forearms to two of the figures; last quarter of the 19th Century.

As noted, the female figure's forearm and the standing child's arm now missing, but in otherwise good condition. The frame with areas of discoloration to the reverse; the front presents a bright gold with its wirework remaining. The sapphires are medium-deep blue and predominantly translucent with two examples semi-opaque to opaque. The cameo's white chalcedony figural group is carved in very high relief and sits upon a translucent light brown agate base. Due to the nature of the design and the depth of the gold frame, it is difficult to determine with certainty if the cameo is composed of one or two elements. However, if seen under close inspection, the pedestal is clearly evident, representing its construction. The cameo signed beneath the figural group; the Castellani maker's mark on the frame's reverse.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Castellani workshop lists G.A. Girardet several times in their registers, mostly in the second half of the 19th century. For another example of Girardet's work see Castellani by Susan Weber Soros and Stefanie Walker, ed. 'cameos and intaglios,' page 111, fig. 4-16.