
Carlo Giuliano
Hardstone Cameo of Bacchus and Enamel Pendant
An antique hardstone, pearl and enamel pendant by Carlo Giuliano, c.1883. The pendant is centred around a detailed oval hardstone cameo of Bacchus, the head and shoulders of the figure facing left with a grape vine around his head, the carving using the multiple layers of the stone to add contrast to the carving and highlight the wreath. It is set within a gold frame decorated with red and white enamel and surrounded by a fringe of seed pearls, the reverse with a glazed locket panel lined with light blue silk, engraved to the base with the initials O.V.G.H. and the date 1883. This is suspended from an oval bale decorated with black and white enamel.

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Director’s Notes
At the time this pendant was made Giuliano had a shop and workshop at 115 Piccadilly. It was a treasure chest of wonderful jewels showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship for which Giuliano pieces were renowned. His beautifully detailed enamel work was unparalleled and he often used unusual combinations of gems such as lapis lazuli, zircons, fire opals and pearls, favouring cabochons as readily as faceted gems. Brooches, pendants, fringe necklaces, earrings, hair ornaments and tiaras all received the Giuliano touch and combined contemporary wearability with the Renaissance aesthetic that he found so inspiring.