3-008-682 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition - enamelled cup, [made] by Harry Emanuel, 1862. Gold cup designed by Chesneau, '...one of the most important and interesting examples of goldsmiths' work which has ever been made in this country. The idea, which is taken from the old story of "Perseus and Andromeda", is boldly conceived and admirably carried into execution, and the chasing and enamelling equal anything which has been made either in ancient or modern times...The cup is carved from a solid brown topaz, and is mounted in pure gold entirely repoussé and partially enamelled. For harmony of colour, correctness of drawing, and delicacy of execution this is quite one of the gems of the exhibition. The enamel is laid on with so much skill that the marks of the chaser's tools are apparent under the surface, differing entirely from the general run of enamelled work, which by filling up the outline destroys the expression. The figure of Andromeda is universally admired for its grace and beauty, and the artist, Mr. Chesneau, who designed, modelled, and chased it, and who has bestowed two years on its completion, merits the highest encomiums for so successful a result of his labours'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.