An intaglio is a recessed image that has been carved into the back of a stone the reverse of a cameo, which protrudes from the front of the stone. At the turn of the 19th century, a hand-carved semi-precious gem intaglio was a rare and treasured possession.1 Oct 2015
What were intaglio rings used for?
Intaglio rings are created when artist carves down into the stone to hollow out an image. Usually they are designed as signet rings, originally used to seal a document but later in history they were used to display coats of arms or just initials. They were generally worn by men.24 Sept 2018
What is a Roman intaglio ring?
A finely modelled Ancient Roman gold finger ring, featuring a D-shaped hoop and an oval bezel, set with a garnet cabochon stone. Intaglio rings were a popular style of jewellery in Ancient Rome and have been uncovered across the full geographic extent of the former Roman Empire.
What are intaglios made of?
Intaglios and cameos can be made in any material, even latex or plastic, but the most popular are of stone, coral, shell, glass and fine metals. Originally, intaglios had a practical as well as decorative purpose.
What is an intaglio ring?
Intaglio. In contrast, an intaglio is carved into a gemstone to create a hollow recessed image. They can be worn with the concave carving facing the wearer or turned over, to reveal an engraved image floating below a smooth surface.21 Dec 2018
What is the difference between a cameo and an intaglio?
The word cameo specifically describes a relief image raised higher than its background and carved from one material. In contrast, if the artist carves down into the stone to hollow out a recessed image, the resulting work is called an "intaglio" (pronounced with a silent "g").
Do intaglios have meaning?
Definition of intaglio 1a : an engraving or incised figure in stone or other hard material depressed below the surface so that an impression from the design yields an image in relief. b : the art or process of executing intaglios.
What are intaglio rings?
Although many were worn and collected simply as mementos, in ancient Rome they were often used as signet rings, with businessmen and political leaders with enormous power and wealth using them to sign documents by transferring their impression into a hot dripping of wax.3 Oct 2017
What are intaglios used for?
In contrast, an intaglio is carved into a gemstone to create a hollow recessed image. They can be worn with the concave carving facing the wearer or turned over, to reveal an engraved image floating below a smooth surface. Historically, intaglios were carved from hard stones for use as wax seals.21 Dec 2018
How did Romans cut gemstones?
Technique. Gems were mostly cut by using abrasive powder from harder stones in conjunction with a hand-drill, probably often set in a lathe.