Classical Revival Intaglio of the Head of a Man, 18th Century CE
Further images
This intaglio is set in a 24 karat gold ring. Since engravers in the 18thcentury used ancient coins for models, it is to the coins of the ancient world we...
This intaglio is set in a 24 karat gold ring.
Since engravers in the 18thcentury used ancient coins for models, it is to the coins of the ancient world we should look for the subject of this fine intaglio. Two kings stand out in particular-- Demetrios Poliorketes (reigned 294 -288 B.C. in Macedonia), and Lysimachos (323- 281 B.C. in Thrace). Both are portrayed on their coinage as youthful, vigorous and handsome 'with wavy hair and noble features. Each of these men lived very colorful lives; Lysimachos being a bodyguard and close friend of Alexander the Great. The engraver has here rendered a lively depiction of a youthful ruler, one which would have been appreciated by the highly cultured aristocrats of the 18th century.
Since engravers in the 18thcentury used ancient coins for models, it is to the coins of the ancient world we should look for the subject of this fine intaglio. Two kings stand out in particular-- Demetrios Poliorketes (reigned 294 -288 B.C. in Macedonia), and Lysimachos (323- 281 B.C. in Thrace). Both are portrayed on their coinage as youthful, vigorous and handsome 'with wavy hair and noble features. Each of these men lived very colorful lives; Lysimachos being a bodyguard and close friend of Alexander the Great. The engraver has here rendered a lively depiction of a youthful ruler, one which would have been appreciated by the highly cultured aristocrats of the 18th century.
Literature
Jasper-Gold