A pair of cameo and gold cufflinks by Bentley & Skinner

A pair of cameo and gold cufflinks by Bentley & Skinner

Description

A pair of cameo and gold cufflinks by Bentley & Skinner, each cufflink with two realistically carved banded agate cameos depicting two addorsed female profiles, with a gorgoneion face to the center, possibly Italian circa 1850, set in yellow gold mounts with chain fittings, hallmarked 22 carats, London, 2024, made by Bentley & Skinner, measuring approximately 1.6 x 1.6cm, gross weight 22.1 grams.

These wonderfully carved banded agate cufflinks would make a fantastic addition to any collection. The use of the gorgoneion face, with the fabulous detail of a rolling gold-coloured tongue, has an apotropaic function that harkens back to Ancient Greece. The use of gorgoneion faces was meant to protect the wearer from enemies, which is why they are often seen in not only jewellery but depicted in Ancient Greek architecture and metal work. These cameos are possible depicting Medusa in her original female form, and her transformation into a gorgon by the Goddess Athena.