Shell cameo, antique scene, Italy16th century

The shell is carved in high relief with an antique scene, probably illustrating the clemency of Alexander the Great sparing the family of the defeated Persian king Darius. This scene was frequently depicted during the Italian Renaissance. Good condition, no restoration, no grinding, a large loss in the background which, however, completely preserves the decoration. Italian work from the second half of the 16th century, Florence or Lombardy.
It is extremely rare to find a shell cameo from this period. The state of preservation, the quality of the carving, and the interest of the subject make it a major collector's item, worthy of the greatest museums. Very few comparable examples are known.

86mm x 68mm.