Mid Victorian Hercules & Minerva Gryllus Cameo Brooch carnelian Stamped Italy 750

Stamped Italy 750

with openworked backs and silver settings

2cm (including bail)

18ct stamp (partially rubbed)

Mid Victorian Hercules & Minerva Gryllus Cameo Brooch carnelian Stamped Italy 750DATE: Etruscan Revival, c. 1870 Incredible mid Victorian cameo brooch featuring a Gryllus comprising the heads of Athena Minerva and Heracles Hercules, as well as the lion's head famously worn by the latter. The Grylli (essentially referring to any group of conjoined heads) was thought to ward off the evil eye, and protect the wearer from demonic spirits. They were often a combination of beasts and humans with mythical associations. This example is