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Lava Head of a Small Boy, Probably the Infant Hercules Materials: Lava cameo set in a 9K gold frame with a pendant bale. Size : 1 - 1/4 by 1 - 1/16 inches Origin: Naples, Italy Date: ca 1960 Condition: Mint, with no wearing to the high points of the carving and no cracks, chips or surface flaws. This lava cameo pendant, oval in shape, shows the frontal view of a small boy's face. The chubby little lad wears a lifelike pout on his slightly parted lips and his hair flops endearingly onto his forehead. The face possesses unusual character for one so young: there is a sense of assurance in the eyes and in the square jaw. He is a sturdy toddler, clad in a draped garment of classical style. The cameo is a copy of cameos from ca 1790 - 1800 and depicts the infant Hercules. According to the ancient myths, Hercules performed feats of strength while still in swaddling clothes. He was often portrayed as a small child by ancient sculptors, who usually show him strangling serpents in his cradle. His childhood deeds were also the subject of works of art during the classical revival of the late 18th into early 19th centuries. The original of a cameo like this was likely designed as a protective amulet, a good-luck charm intended to bestow the hardiness of the young Hercules upon a small boy in an era of staggering child mortality. It is a lively and charming cameo with a retail value of $250.00. |