Terpsichore Material: Lava. 18 k gold. Date: ca 1840 Origin: France Size: 2 3/16 by 2 inches (56 x 51 mm) Condition: 10/10 Mint In my experience I have seen just only two so large lava cameos. This piece is really magnificent and in fabulous condition, exceptionally rare for lava cameos. The carving is top rate quality. It is also incredibly expressive: please notice her pensive look, and the relaxation feeling. Is difficult to identify the subject: I think the woman is Terpsichore (the Muse of dance and choral song and, by extension, Muse of music), normally depicted plucking a lyre with a plectrum. But she could be also Polymnia, the Muse of the hymn (almost depicted in pensive pose, with a roll and robe). As you know both Muses are depicted with lyra. In this case she has a musical score (the roll) in her right hand: notes are visibles with lens.