Antique Hand-Carved Shell Cameo Brooch, c. 1910s–1930s
A charming early 20th-century shell cameo brooch featuring a hand-carved profile of a young woman with hands clasped in prayer — an unusual and slightly romantic departure from the more typical classical lady cameo. The carving is set in an ornate gold-plated brass frame with baroque scrollwork, palmette details, and shaped points at top and bottom.
THE CAMEO
Hand-carved from genuine shell (likely helmet or conch). The natural cream-to-pale-yellow tones and subtle layering are characteristic of authentic carved shell — not resin or plastic. The carving depicts a young woman in three-quarter profile, head slightly lifted, with both hands raised together at her chest in prayer or devotion. A small cross or floral motif appears in her hair. The pose suggests this may have been intended as a devotional piece or possibly a mourning brooch.
THE FRAME
Gold-plated brass with rich Victorian-revival scrollwork — repeating fan-shaped foliage, fleur-de-lis points at top and bottom, and pierced corner detail. The decorative shape and four-prong setting are typical of early 20th-century work.
THE PIN
The reverse features a safety-style trombone clasp with a lever mechanism — a feature that came into use after 1910, helping to date this piece. The pin functions and closes properly.
DATING
Based on the trombone safety clasp (post-1910), the Victorian-revival frame style, and the natural patina on the brass, this brooch most likely dates to the 1910s–1930s — the late Edwardian to early Art Deco period.
CONDITION
Honest age-appropriate wear consistent with approximately 100 years. The gold plating shows wear at the high points of the frame, with verdigris (natural copper-alloy patina) visible in the deeper recesses. The shell carving is intact with no chips or cracks. The pin and clasp function correctly. Photographed in close detail so you can see exactly what you're getting.
MEASUREMENTS
1.5 in (H) x 1.25 in (W) — approximately 38mm x 32mm
A lovely small piece for collectors of antique cameos, Victorian or Edwardian jewelry, religious-themed antiques, or anyone drawn to the slightly mysterious mood of an early 20th-century mourning or devotional brooch.
Ships carefully padded in a small gift box via USPS. From a smoke-free home.
