Saulini workshop signed cameo of a lady 14k gold brooch

Tommaso and Luigi Saulini workshop. 19th century large signed cameo of a Lady. 14k gold brooch mount. Original case. Signed “Saulini F” (Saulini Fecit) at the foot of the cameo.

Measurements: Cameo: 1.9in (4.9cm) x 1.6in (4cm). Brooch: 2.75in (7cm) x 2.25in (6cm)

A large cameo in an elaborate brooch mount, yet both exuding subtlety. The cameo is beautifully carved utilising the shape of the shell to increase the three-dimensional effect of the head. The delicacy of the carving of the contours of the head and neck is exquisite. The brooch has eight tiny gold faces at cardinal points interspersed with elaborate wirework and beading. 

Tomasso Saulini and his son Luigi were among the most celebrated cameo carvers in 19th-century Rome. Recorded by Murray's Guides to Rome as having been working there from 1853. Tommaso Saulini exhibited at the 1862 International Exhibition in London and carved cameos for the Royal Order of Victoria & Albert. After Tommaso died the studio was run by his son Luigi until he died in 1883. 

Condition: 
The cameo is in excellent condition. The brooch mount tests electronically (kee) as 14k gold in all places apart from the pin. However, there is oxidization of the non-gold part of the alloy causing discoloration in parts. The clasp is a replacement and only just catches the tip of the pin, which is slightly bent. If the brooch is to be worn, a jeweler’s attention to this is recommended.

Bibliography:
Micaela Dickman de Petra & Francesca Barberini, 'Tommaso e Luigi Saulini. Incisori di cammei nella Roma dell'Ottocento', Rome 2006
Malcolm Carr, 'Tommaso and Luigi Saulini' in Connoisseur, November 1975, pp. 170-181.