ANTIQUE DETAILED SHELL CAMEO OF ORPHEUS, CLASSIC GREEK MYTHOLOGY
 
Presented here, a beautifully detailed shell cameo depicting the side view of Orpheus. Orpheus was a musician, poet and prophet in Greek mythology. His parents were the king of Thrace Oeagrus and the Muse Calliope. As he grew older, it became apparent that Orpheus was extremely gifted musically. He could play any instrument perfectly and his singing voice was so beautiful that it could charm animals, trees and even rocks.When he was grown, Orpheus journeyed to Olympus to meet Apollo, god of music. Apollo was so impressed with Orpheus that he gave him the lyre and taught him how to play. With his new instrument in hand, Orpheus returned to Thrace where he quickly became famous for his music. Everyone who heard him play or sing fell instantly in love with him.
 
Here, we have him masterfully  immortalized by a great artisan over a shell as a cameo, paying especial attention to detail.
 
This beautiful handcrafted work of art is ready to be mounted as a brooch or as a medalion, at owner's preference.
 
MEASURES: 30 x 40mm
 
ESTIMATED AGE: circa 1900-1920
 
GENERAL CONDITIONS: Excellent, no dings, cracks or scratches anywhere, please refer to the pictures.