$132.00
Stunning–and rare–neoclassical cameo portrait made of mother-of-pearl and framed in an oval frame with gilded accents under convex glass. Issued by the New York firm of Saxon & Clemens–see history below–the cameo, which I believe is an antique and older than the ca. 1940s framing, is surrounded by an acanthus leaf gold foil border which is repeated around the inner edge of the frame. The cameo has a convex shape as well; beautifully detailed and lovely luster. Overall measurements are 7-5/8″ x 5-5/8″. Original label and hanging wire are present. Excellent preowned antique/vintage condition. Perfect for a classically-inspired gallery wall or for shelf styling. I’ve been unable to determine the subject’s identity. Greek or Roman god or goddess? A historical character from antiquity? The artist’s own one-of-a-kind creation?
1 in stock
HISTORY (from online sources): Saxon & Clemens. Little is known about the personal history of Max Saxon and John Clemens, founders of Saxon & Clemens. John was interested in both writing and music, becoming an accomplished concert pianist. While working at the Campbell Inn resort in New York, he met Max Saxon, an art enthusiast from New York City. The two became life partners. In 1940 they founded the Saxon & Clemens company and opened a shop on Madison Avenue. Although founded in 1940, the company wasn’t incorporated in New York until 1963 and was dissolved in 1983; exact years of operation are unknown. The company specialized in affixing ornate frames to fine antique artworks. John’s sister Adele, an artist (also a reverend and founder of the Divine Harmony Spiritual Church), joined them in New York City and occupied a studio in the towers at Carnegie Hall. (This studio space was a part of what was America’s first art colony–today sometimes referred to as the “Lost Bohemia.”) Adele’s numerous contributions to the Saxon & Clemens art company are now highly sought after collector’s items.
Five-digit alpha-numeric phone numbers (like the one printed on the label affixed to the frame) were first introduced in 1930 and began to be phased out in the 1960s. The prefix “PL” corresponds to the “Plaza” telephone exchange in New York City.
SHIPPING: $10 flat rate shipping valid only for street addresses within contiguous United States; we cannot deliver to post office boxes. For shipping to Alaska, Hawaii and elsewhere, please contact us with your location for a custom shipping quote.
A WORD ABOUT VINTAGE: Our inventory consists of vintage or antique items which are more than 20 years old, usually used or pre-owned, unless marked “new old stock.” As such, there may be signs of wear and age, which we will disclose to the best of our ability. Nevertheless, we encourage you to carefully read the description and view the photos, especially when purchasing a gift. All items ship with tracking and insurance, and although we do not accept returns, we will offer a refund in case of breakage or damage during transit, upon receipt of sufficient proof.
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I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!
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danicatheracecardriver –
Wonderful experience, meticulous packaging!
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!