|
HOME :
Intaglio Jewelry :
Classical Revival Seal Rings : Blue Agate Intaglio Depicting a Standing Deity
|
 |
|
|
|
Blue Agate Intaglio Depicting a Standing Deity - FJ.5999
Origin: Europe
Circa: 18
th
Century AD
Collection: Seal Ring/ Intaglio
Medium: Agate/Gold
Additional Information: This intaglio is set in an 18-karat gold ring.
$3,700.00
Location: United States
|
|
|
| Photo Gallery |
|
|
| Description |
The art of glyptic, or carving on colored precious
stones, is probably one of the oldest known to
humanity. Intaglios, gems with an incised design,
were made as early as the fourth and third
millennia B.C. in Mesopotamia and the Aegean
Islands. They display a virtuosity of execution
that suggests an old and stable tradition rooted
in the earliest centuries. The tools required for
carving gems were simple: a wheel with a belt-
drive and a set of drills. Abrasives were
necessary since the minerals used were too hard
for a metal edge. A special difficulty of engraving
intaglios, aside from their miniature size, was
that the master had to work with a mirror image
in mind. The God Mercury was the protector of
merchants, from which his name derives (the
root “merx” meaning merchandise). After the
Hyalinization of his cult, he was depicted as the
messenger of Jupiter (Zeus), and as his servant in
amorous exploits. Mercury's attributes are a
broad-brimmed hat, winged sandals and a
purse, symbol of profit. This intaglio shows
Mercury striding forwards wearing his famous
hat, with his right hand extended, holding what
might be the copious purse. The pale blue of the
agate gives a feeling of the open air and sky; of
beautiful, virile gods strolling about the heavens,
watching out for the humans below. This lovely
ring exudes a feeling of happiness and warmth,
perfect for someone who deserves the good
things of life.
- (FJ.5999)
|
| |
|
