Female Nude Material: Shell. 18 k gold. Date: ca 1870 Origin: France Size: 1 5/8 by 1 1/4 inches (42 x 32 mm) Condition: Mint Female nudes in this position are usuals in all history of art, but this is the first I see on a cameo. This piece is in high relief, and the carving is very detailed. Intentionally, the finishing was not entirely smooth and polished. So, the woman looks as carved on the wax and gives the effect of the softness and the sensuality. This style recalls the sculpture in the late second half of 19th Century (ie. August Rodin etc.). The shading on the background is masterly carved, as the overall cameo. As cameos lovers knows, the shading on the shell is the most difficult and virtuosic effect to achieve. Sorry for the many pictures, but I want show you all details of carving.