Cameo Necklace
Mediumgold (18K) and coral
Dimensions9 1/4 × 4 3/8 inches (23.5 × 11.1 cm)
Credit LineBequest of Nelda C. Stark, 1999
Object number2008.89.1
ClassificationsAdornments
DescriptionGold chain; seven oval shaped carved coral cameo pendants; twelve circular domed coral pendants; nineteen circular domed coral in mounts on chain; ring latch.Label TextCameo jewelry features raised images carved in relief, typically revealing faces in profile. The style first appeared in Ancient Greece. It became popular again in the Victorian era, thanks to Queen Victoria’s influence.
The cameo necklace on display is made of pink coral carved into figures from Greek mythology, including Hermes, Hercules, and Artemis. The center cameo likely represents Selene, a Titan in Greek myth who represents the moon. She is depicted wearing a crescent moon crown. Miriam Stark loved history and collected objects and jewelry inspired by Ancient Greece.
To what kind of event do you think Miriam would have worn this necklace? What kind of outfit would go with it? She likely wore this jewelry while hosting a dinner party at The W.H. Stark House, where she and her husband often entertained businessmen from across the country.
ProvenanceMiriam Lutcher Stark [Mrs. W.H. Stark, 1859-1936]; by inheritance to her son H.J. Lutcher Stark [1887-1965]; by inheritance to his wife Nelda C. Stark [1909-1999]; bequeathed December 13, 1999 to the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation; accessioned to The W.H. Stark House
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