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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs
Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs
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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs

  • This important cameo brooch features the visage of Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs
  • Bowlegs was among the last and the most resilient Seminole War leaders
  • This cameo represents the man's enduring legacy and historic importance
  • Carved from labradorite, the piece shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence
  • Get complete item description here
$34,500
Item No. 30-8581

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Description
One of history's most important American Indian leaders, Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs (also known as Holata Micco, or "Alligator Chief"), is represented in this exceptionally rare cameo brooch. He is faithfully depicted in the distinctive clothing of the Seminole tribe, including a feather headdress and large hoop earring. Intricately carved from a stunning specimen of labradorite, the cameo shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence that brings this legendary figure to life. 

Descended from. . .
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One of history's most important American Indian leaders, Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs (also known as Holata Micco, or "Alligator Chief"), is represented in this exceptionally rare cameo brooch. He is faithfully depicted in the distinctive clothing of the Seminole tribe, including a feather headdress and large hoop earring. Intricately carved from a stunning specimen of labradorite, the cameo shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence that brings this legendary figure to life. 

Descended from a line of Seminole Indian chiefs, Bowlegs was among the last and the most resilient Seminole War leaders. He rose to power during the Second Seminole War, when his successful use of guerrilla warfare frustrated the attempts of American military forces to remove American Indians from Florida. Bowlegs' warriors were counted among the most fearsome of the Seminole tribes - when hostilities ended in 1842, they were considered the most prominent survivors. 

Peace lasted for several years, until fighting broke out again in 1855 after a group of surveyors destroyed plants and property in Seminole territory. Bowlegs responded by again engaging in guerrilla warfare, beginning the Third Seminole War. After several years of attacks, Bowlegs and his tribe agreed to relocate to Indian Territory in Arkansas in 1858.

Tales of Bowlegs' resistance remain legendary in Florida and beyond. After his death in 1859, a number of Seminole warriors adopted the name Billy Bowlegs to honor the fallen chief, while a spring in Fort Myers, Florida also bears his name. This cameo represents the man's enduring legacy and historic importance.

Circa 1855

1 5/8" high x 1 5/16" wide
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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs
Period: 19th Century
Origin: America
Type: Brooches
Depth: 0.5 in. (1.27 cm)
Width: 1.31 in. (3.33 cm)
Height: 1.63 in. (4.13 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

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