Victorian Era Shell Cameo Brooch Depicting Aurora's Chariot

This is a large, oval-shaped shell cameo brooch, likely carved from a sardonyx or carnelian shell, featuring a classic 'Day' or 'Aurora' motif. The carving depicts a figure, potentially the goddess Aurora, driving a horse-drawn chariot (biga) atop stylized clouds. The figure is shown with a flowing sash or veil billowing overhead, while two spirited horses are rendered in high relief. The shell displays a warm, brownish-orange background with the cream-colored foreground layers meticulously carved to create the scene. The cameo is secured in a thin, rope-twist or 'cannetille' style bezel frame, common in the mid-to-late 19th century (c. 1860-1890). Physically, the item appears to be approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in width. The condition shows moderate internal stress lines (crazing) typical of aged natural shell, and there is a visible dark patina on the metal setting, suggesting it may be silver or a low-carat gold alloy. The carving exhibits good craftsmanship, particularly in the musculature of the horses and the fluid drapery of the figure. No maker's marks are visible in the photograph, but the style is characteristic of Italian shell carving destined for the Victorian 'Grand Tour' souvenir market.