Italian, late 16th century

the loop stamped: 05 and the reverse of the mount loosely inscribed: EB 1950

Overall the condition of the cameo is very good with some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are a few minor naturally occurring inclusions visible on the surface, including on the reverse, at the proper left shoulder, and under the right breast. There is some tarnishing and some minor scratching to the mount.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The carver of the present cameo achieved an extraordinary polish of Ceres' skin and daringly undercut her right hand and hair. The subject was often treated with reverence in gem engraving: a comparable cameo features in the centre of a magnificent gold and enamel bowl in the Swedish Royal collection and another is recorded in the collection of King Francis I. Further examples of cameos with this composition are in the Sir Hans Sloane collection now in the British Museum and another was sold as part of the collection of Yves Saint Laurent at Christie's Paris (23 February 2009, lot 475).

RELATED LITERATURE
Y. Hackenbroch, Renaissance jewellery, New York, 1979, p. 392; O.M. Dalton, Catalogue of the engraved gems of the Post-Classical periods in the British Museum, London, 1915, no. 443