of Etruscan-Revival style, the two bands decorated with figures in relief, joined by a knot of Hercules, fixed to a later red velvet and leather display band, inner circumference approximately 255mm.

Cf.: Geoffrey C. Munn, Castellani and Giuliano Revivalist, Jewellers of the Nineteenth Century, London, 1984, pg. 110, plate 126, for an early photograph of a similar diadem, taken from the sale of Alfredo Castellani’s jewellery in December 1930. Cf.: Susan Weber Sordos and Stefanie Walker, Castellani and Italian Archaeological Jewelry, Singapore, 2004, pg. 267, for a photo of a similar diadem on display at the Exposition Universelle, Paris, dated 1878. 

Minor areas of loss to rope-twist details to base on left band. A few tiny fractures to base on some figures. Some dents and light scratching. Some areas of oxidation to central knot motif and on a few areas on band commensurate with age. Some dents to spheres on central motif. Nails are fixing band to red velvet display band slightly protruding. Leather band and red velvet with some light wear to edges. Total gross weight approximately 75.8 grams. Overall condition good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The 19^th century was characterised by a renewed interest in ancient and classical art. Economic growth contributed to the development and enrichment of the middle and upper classes, with visits to cities such as Rome becoming a fashionable must as people embarked on The Grand Tour. It was a time of unprecedented archaeological discoveries; for example the excavation of Pompeii became much more extensive during the French control of Naples (1806-1815), and the 1830's onwards marked the discovery of several Etruscan tombs. The Roman jeweller Fortunato Pio Castellani responded to this trend by producing what he termed as ‘Italian archaeological jewellery’, drawing on the Etruscan, Roman, Greek and Byzantine motifs that were so popular at the time. He and his sons Alessandro and Augusto would copy ancient techniques such as filigree work and granulation, ensuring that Castellani was one of the most popular jewellers in the 19^th century, supplying both royalty and the aristocracy. Signatures in the company visitor’s book reflected the prominence of their clients, including Frederic, Lord Leighton and the Prince of Wales. The London shop continued to trade until 1930, closing following the death of Alfredo Castellani, son of Augusto, and last of the family line.