Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu

A shell cameo brooch/pendant, carved to depict Hermes in flight carrying the maiden Psyche in his arms, collet set in yellow precious metal mount with ropetwist detail, with hinged pendant fitting to the reverse, width 56mm. £60-80

The messenger god Hermes (Mercury), identified by his winged sandals and pegasus hat, is carrying the maiden Psyche to the heavens for reunion with her lover Eros (Cupid) after her many trials (from Apuleius’s Metamorphoses).