Exquisite Intaglio in a Banded Agate Ring
The period of the Renaissance through the 18th century was the embodiment of the art form of carving intaglios and cameos. Generally thereafter, the level of skill in the production of these works rapidly declined.
Here we have a beautiful banded agate the color of mink brown with hints of deep purple, caramel and grey white carved with imagery derived from classical antiquity. Perhaps unset in its day, it is now placed into a modern 22k yellow gold ring reminiscent of the more simple settings of the 18th century. Massive in size, it makes for a dramatic ring and an impressive statement.
The exquisite intaglio is of a female goddess, possibly Cleopatra, draped in flowing diaphanous robes gazing into the distance as a snake wraps itself about her arm. This image is a Greek or Roman interpretation of the earlier Egyptian Queen that predates Shakespeare’s version. In that scenario, she was clutching an asp to her breast when bitten. The skill level required to achieve this piece can be clearly demonstrated (and, of course, appreciated) in the rendering of the folds of fabric, the delicate carving of the face and in the extraordinary three-dimensional quality of the figure. (See our impression for full details).
Condition: Very good; two edge chips on the left side and one tiny chip inside the arch of the shoulder arched fabric. Intaglio is mounted in a modern ring.
Measurements: 1-3/8 inches (3.4 cm) in length by just shy of 7/8 of an inch (2.1 cm) in width. Ring rises from finger 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) at the highest point. Weight is substantial at 31.5 grams.
Size: US 7-1/2 (UK O; Euro 17.75, 56 mm)and can be sized to fit any hand.
Date & Origin: Late 16th or early 17th century and is most likely Italian in origin. Ring is modern.
Historical notes: Carving images onto stone or precious gems has an ancient history. It is believed that the oldest engravings originated about 5000 to 3000 BCE. The artists of ancient Persia, Egypt and Greece created remarkable works in this medium.
