Large Victorian Hebe & The Eagle Carved Shell Cameo Brooch
A magnificent large Victorian carved shell cameo brooch, depicting Hebe, Greek goddess of youth, with the eagle of Zeus.
Hebe was the daughter of Zeus and Hera and served as cupbearer to the gods of Mount Olympus. She is traditionally depicted offering nectar or ambrosia to Zeus in the form of his eagle — an image which became particularly fashionable in 19th-century cameo jewellery.
Beautifully hand carved in high relief, Hebe is shown seated in flowing classical robes beside the dramatically outstretched wings of the eagle. The warm natural shell provides a wonderful contrast to the crisp white carving.
The cameo is surrounded by an exceptionally decorative Pinchbeck-style gilt metal frame, with intertwined scrolling branches, leaves and applied floral details. The reverse retains its long traditional brooch pin and simple clasp.
Period: Victorian, circa 1850–1880 Material: Hand-carved shell cameo and Pinchbeck/gilt metal mount Subject: Hebe, Goddess of Youth, with the Eagle of Zeus Condition: Good antique condition Fastening: Traditional long pin and clasp Measurements: 8 x 6cm
History: Hebe and the Eagle was a recognised Victorian cameo subject. Comparable 19th-century examples describe Hebe feeding or offering drink to the eagle of Zeus; interestingly, examples were also mounted in Pinchbeck during the 1840s and later Victorian period.
