This 19th Century wax seal wheel is not only practical but also an impressive little artwork to exhibit on one's desk! In the early 19th Century, letters were often sealed with hot wax. Most avid letter writers would have their own seal, for instance bearing their initials. This particular seal has a romantic symbolic meaning, and would therefore have been very suitable to seal love letters!
The red paste intaglio depicts Cupid, the god of Love, riding a 'biga' - a chariot drawn by two animals - which is pulled by a lion and a goat. Chariots driven by a variety of charioteers were a common subject for Roman cameos.
Cupid is often depicted conquering a lion, since this mighty animal symbolizes strength. The goat, with its capricious character - a term which comes from the Latin word capra, meaning goat - in mythology is associated with lust and untamed passions. This intaglio therefore shows Cupid taming several forms of men’s qualities, both its strength and its more lustful side.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 58 x 12 mm.
The intaglio measures 16 x 14 mm.
Weight: 22.50 grams
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1870s.
Material: Colourless and red paste.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor signs of wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that this store is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties and VAT.