Lot 2
Western Europe, Neoclassical Period, ca. 19th century CE. Wow! An exemplary agate cameo of vibrant crimson depicting the Roman goddess Victoria - Greek Nike - or a winged victory. Skillfully carved from creamy white agate reminiscent of Classical marble sculptures and Neoclassical plaster casts, the ancient beauty poses dynamically in contrapposto; simultaneously throwing back her left shoulder to lean on a shield with an aegis, while jutting her hips forward to highlight her bare chest with supple breasts and the voluptuous curves of her hourglass figure. A sumptuous cloth is wrapped around her hips, cascading in billowing folds down her legs and coyly covering her sex, as sizeable wings rise from her back, each feather meticulously delineated with careful precision. Gazing downward to the left, the beautiful goddess presents a noble profile with generously lidded eyes, a strong, Greek nose, and plump lips, all crowned by a coiffure of wavy locks, effortlessly pulled back into a neat bun. Size: 1.2" W x 2.1" H (3 cm x 5.3 cm)
She carries a spear in her right hand, resting it diagonally on her shoulder to lie parallel to the direction of her gaze, as a fasces - a Roman weapon comprised of a bound bundle of wooden rods - is held beneath her right arm.
The Neoclassical period saw immense northern European interest in the Classical world, in part inspired by the budding science of archaeology. Artists looked to the deep past for inspiration but brought an imaginative sensibility to their depictions of it, as evident in this intaglio. This lovely deity could be either a portrayal of the goddess Victoria (Greek Nike), who was a major part of Roman society and symbolized both success in war and triumph over death, or a winged victory, who represented the spirit of victory, rather than the goddess herself. Winged victories are central to Roman iconography and often found in pairs decorating the spandrels of Roman arches. Interestingly, portrayals of these winged women continued after the Christianization of the empire and, thus, evolved into the depiction of Christian angels.
Provenance: private East Coast collection, New York, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#169472
- Condition: A few very light scratches to agate near top. Otherwise, intact and excellent with impressively preserved detail.
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