Deep In Thought Wax Seal
A sizeable golden brown paste seal featuring imagery of a seated pensive woman in classical robes holding a plumed helmet.
Signed ‘Brown inv’t’, indicating that is was made by the gem and seal engraver William Brown (1748-1825). Brown was known for his cameos and seals with classical scenes, mainly drawing inspiration for his pieces from classical history and more contemporary portraiture. The ‘inv’t’ implies that this was his own original design, so while it might bear similarities to ancient examples, the composition was individual to William.
Why we love it
Leaning heavily on her elbow, head on her hand, eyes downcast and holding a warriors helmet, the female figure is deep in thought, or perhaps mourning the loss of her beloved. Figures of this kind were commonly used as mourning motifs in sculpture throughout the 18th century.
However we believe that the imagery may represent Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare.
The “Mourning Athena” is a well-known Athenian marble relief depicting the Greek goddess Athena in a pensive, sorrowful state, while still wearing her helmet. This piece, created around 460 BC, shows Athena with her head bowed and leaning on a spear, which contrasts with her typical depiction as a powerful, warrior goddess. The relief’s meaning has been debated, but it is often interpreted as Athena mourning a loss, potentially of Athenians or related to a specific event.
The imagery on the seal may be a variation on this theme, which is in keeping with the maker William Browns’ methodology in designing his own compositions based on ancient art works.
Additional information
| Era | Georgian |
|---|---|
| Seal colour | Golden brown |
| Seal material | antique paste |
| Seal shape | North south oval |
| Condition | Very good antique condition with light surface wear |
| Dimensions | 25.9 x 23.1 x 4.5mm |
What would Emma do?
We’ve priced this as out Classic Pendant or Three Arm Ring however if you’d like it set as a Gemstone Bezel pendant, please reach out to us and we’ll tailor a quote for you.
Why not visit our Flown Away Home section for design inspo, or check out our full collection of wax seals.
