Fragments from Ancient Cameos in the Grimani Collection [Plate I]

About this work

This page shows nine small scenes carved into ancient-looking gems, each framed like a tiny stage. The figures are gods, heroes, and mythical creatures—some standing, some lounging, others in dramatic poses. One group holds a torch, another wrestles a bull, and one woman cradles a child while a lion watches nearby. The lines are sharp, and the shading gives a sense of three-dimensional forms. These images were copied from real ancient cameos, which were carved gemstones worn as jewelry. The artist used a tool to etch lines into metal, creating a print that looks like a relief sculpture. Next, look up engraving to see how this printmaking technique works.