COLLECTOR MUSEUM QUALITY~RARE 14K CAMEO*GIOVANNI NOTO*PENDANT/PIN~VTG 1950s ITALY
Listing ID: sku-pid-557541
$9,100.00
In stock
SKU
sku-pid-557541
AUTHENTIC *GIOVANNI NOTO* MASTERWORK
Museum‑Quality Carnelian Shell Cameo in Solid 14K Gold
Signed “G. NOTO” • Torre del Greco, Italy • Large Format • One‑of‑a‑Kind
A rare opportunity to acquire an authentic, large, hand‑carved cameo attributed to the legendary Italian master Professor Giovanni Noto (1902–1985) — one of the most celebrated cameo artists of the 20th century and the famed artistic director of the historic Giovanni Apa Studio in Torre del Greco. This exceptional piece is signed “G. NOTO” on the reverse and displays the unmistakable hallmarks of Noto’s personal carving style. The carving is executed on a perfectly selected Carnelian shell, prized for its warm tonal contrast and smooth, flawless surface.
The artistry is unmistakably superior — consistent with Noto’s finest works — and far exceeds the typical output of his students.
AUTHENTICITY & SIGNATURE
This cameo bears the classic “G. NOTO” incised signature, consistent with known authentic examples from the Giovanni Apa Studio. Key authenticity indicators present in this piece:
Correct rounded “G” with tight period
Tall, slightly leaning “N”
Characteristic descending “oto”
Signature placed low on the reverse, as typical for Noto
Clean, confident incision consistent with mid‑century Torre del Greco practice
Many Noto‑signed cameos were inscribed by his students under his direct supervision, but only on pieces he personally approved — and often partially carved himself. The superior execution of this cameo strongly supports Noto’s own hand in the largest majority of the carving.
~ARTISTRY~ “Lady with Bouquet”
A deeply carved, sculptural 3‑dimensional relief depicting a classical lady holding a bouquet. The carving quality is far above student‑grade work and aligns with Noto’s master‑level craftsmanship. Features include:
Exquisite facial refinement
Multi‑layered curls and naturalistic hair
Graceful drapery with depth and movement
Crisp floral detailing
Smooth transitions and confident toolwork
Perfectly selected Carnelian Shell, the traditional Italian carving medium. This Cameo Shell of Italy is derived from the flame or bullmouth helmet Cassis Rufa, a marine mollusk found on the African coast.
~ARTIST & PROVENANCE~
Giovanni Noto (1902–1985) — the professor, known as “Michelangelo’s Chisel”
Artistic director of the Giovanni Apa Studio from 1947–1985
His works are held in museums and elite private collections
Large Noto cameos are exceptionally scarce and rarely appear on the market
Torre del Greco has been the world center of cameo artistry since the Bourbon Kingdom of Naples. This cameo represents the finest tradition of Italian hand‑carved shell art.
~14K GOLD FRAME~ ANCIENT ROME STYLE
Solid 14K yellow gold frame (marked K14)
Elegant Ancient Rome-inspired design
Dual‑wear construction: brooch pin + hidden pendant bail
14K pin stem and 14K rollover safety clasp
Strong, rigid, secure mount
Natural polished gold finish
Total weight: 18.58 grams
~DIMENSIONS~
Large format — the size range most associated with Noto’s personal carvings
Height: 2.50 inches
Width: 1 15/16 inches
Weight: 18.58 grams
~CONDITION~
Excellent vintage condition
No cracks, chips, or structural issues
Crisp carving and secure gold frame
~COLLECTOR SIGNIFICANCE~
Authentic Noto cameos are highly sought after
Large, deeply carved examples are museum‑grade
Ideal for collectors of Italian fine art, antique jewelry, and master‑carved cameos
A rare opportunity to acquire a true Noto masterpiece with signature and provenance
| Marketplace | Pre-Owned Fine Jewelry |
| Jewelry Type | Brooch/Pin |
| Stone | Cameo |
| Metal Type | Yellow Gold |
| Karat | 14k |
- Shipping
| Value of items shipped | Shipping charge to buyer |
|---|---|
| $0-$2999 | $39.95 |
| $3000-$4999 | $49.95 |
| $5000-$7999 | $69.95 |
| $8000 and + | $99.95 |

