Intaglio

Art Historical Context

This exquisite intaglio, carved from rare lapis lazuli—a vibrant blue stone prized in antiquity for its celestial hue and imported from distant Afghanistan—exemplifies the miniaturist mastery of Post-Classical Greek and Roman engravers. Measuring just 15/16 x 3/16 inches (2.3 x 0.4 cm), this tiny gem from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Greek and Roman Art collection was donated in 1881 by John Taylor Johnston. As a seal or jewelry element, intaglios like this were engraved in reverse to leave raised impressions in wax, blending artistry with practicality. The gem likely features profiles of...