Head of a maiden 1800 - 1815

"Head of a Maiden" is a small cameo carved by Italian artist Niccolò Amastini around 1800-1815. The cameo, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a young woman's profile, her hair elaborately styled and flowing down her back. The white cameo is set against a darker, reddish-brown stone, adding depth and contrast to the piece. The small size of the cameo suggests it may have been intended for personal adornment or as a memento. Cameos, which emerged during the Hellenistic period, reached a peak of popularity during the Neoclassical era and are often prized for their intricate craftsmanship and delicate beauty.