Three white plaster impressions of classical gems – a chariot, a mother with child and a horseman – mounted on green ground within a painted wood frame with brass hanging ring.
From the 18th century onward, travellers, antiquarians and students of the classical world collected casts taken from engraved gems (cameos or intaglios). Early examples were often made in sulphur or plaster directly from ancient stones or from famous collections such as those of James Tassie in Britain or the Pichler family in Italy. By the 19th century, neat sets of white plaster impressions were sold as educational tools and souvenirs of the Grand Tour, - 17th to early 19th century custom of a traditional trip through Europe, with Italy as a key destination - allowing admirers to study antique motifs at home. Through the mid-20th century, similar casts remained popular as decorative objects, preserving the elegant line and miniature detail of classical glyptic art.
Good condition; frame with minor wear, original paper backing partially torn.
Period: 20th century
Provenance: Italy
Materials: Plaster on laid paper
Artist: Unknown
Dimensions: 7.7H x 6.7W in | 19.5H x 17W cm
