Mosaico in piccolo

A fine quality micromosaic plaque circa 1800, later set to a high carat gold pendant mount. The technique of micromosaic was developed in the Vatican Mosaic Workshop at the end of the 18th century. The minute tesserae utilised are made of opaque enamel in a range of colours. This mosaic is an allegory of love – the dove of Venus with the flaming torch of Cupid in a chariot drawn by butterflies [Psyche – the soul]. The mosaic is stamped to reverse : J. Cola Fecit. Giacinto (Jacinto) Cola was a mosaic artist active in Rome at the beginning of the 19th century and is listed as one of the most proficient in Petochi’s : I Mosaici Minuti Romani dei secoli XVIII e XIX. The pendant measures 2 and 3/4 inches by just under 3 inches. Very fine work and an unusual subject.

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