Case Antiques

Important cameo brooch portrait of Confederate Colonel Randal McGavock, former mayor of Nashville, killed in the Civil War at the Battle of Raymond, Mississippi in 1863. Randal McGavock references in his journals having this cameo made in Rome ("Pen and Sword, the Life and Journals of Randal McGavock" by Herschel Gower). Randal quotes in his journal, "My cameo came in today and I think the artist has succeeded admirably in getting a good likeness. " The cameo is signed in the lower right corner " T. Saulini Roma 1851." Gold setting tested as 18K. Total weight 23.1 grams. Attributed to Tommaso Saulini (Italian, 1793-1864). Saulini was from a family of master carvers who established a workshop in Rome in 1836. He was a renowned specialist in portraiture, both in hardstone and shell who produced sculptural engravings from his workshop in Via del Babuino in Rome. His son Luigi (1819-1883) engraved the portraits of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and won a medal at the 1862 International Exhibition in London. Excellent condition. 2 3/8" x 2". Circa 1851. 2nd item – Randal McGavock inscribed book, "Home Authors and Home Artists, or American Scenery, Art and Literature," a compilation of 13 steel engravings. Front inside cover inscribed "Christmas Present to Sallie MacGavock from her brother Randal". 12" x 9". Fragile condition: Front cover and first page (with inscription) detached, leather spine missing, foxing to pages. Circa 1850.Lindsley Warden estate.