A gold Etruscan Revival panel 'Campana' bracelet

A gold Etruscan Revival panel 'Campana' bracelet, attributed to Giacinto Melillo, c1870, designed as seven hinged square panels and two semi-circular terminal panels each finely decorated with granulation and wirework and applied florets, polychrome enamel decoration and centred with a pearl, 'pin-and-slot' type hinge, the reverse of each plaque decorated with a fine wirework foliate quatrefoil and centred with a circle, one of the terminal panels stamped TRIUNFO (triumph), 19.5cm, 99g

For similar bracelet see TAIT, H., The Art of the Jeweller; A catalogue of the Hull Grundy gift to the British Museum, page 245, pl.71 It is interesting to note that the British Museum example is signed with initials GM to one of the terminal plaques whereas lot 295 is marked TRIUNFO in a similar place.

SOROS, S.W., WALKER, S., Castellani and Italian Archaeological Jewellery, page 185, fig.7/8.

When Castellani were entrusted with the confiscated Campana collection of Etruscan jewellery, they had the opportunity to make casts and study the original pieces in detail. This seven panel bracelet was one of the most popular adaptions. So faithfully created were the Castellani models, there was suspicion of some being introduced to the 6th century BC Campana collection.

Melillo could well have made this bracelet when he had taken over the management of the Castellani workshop in Napels in 1870.

Accompanied by original purchase receipt from John Joseph (John's Antiques) dated 12th June 2007.