Framed Rare Antique Marchant Intaglio of Ariadne

This intaglio is an authentic Grand Tour intaglio and is NOT a modern plaster reproduction. Intaglios were originally created as a souvenir for people to take home after their “grand tour” travels on the European continent. This intaglio is from the famous English gem engraver, Nathaniel Marchant (engraver to the King of England and Prince of Wales) and was likely made around 1790 while Marchant was working in Rome. This particular subject has been identified as a couple of different women, but the stone carving that Marchant did that is still in the possession of the Queen of England at Windsor Castle lists this subject as Ariadne; a Cretan princess in Greek mythology. She could also be a Bacchante, a priestess or follower of Bacchus. The intaglio has been framed with a marbled paper backing in a shadow-box style to protect the piece and includes a generous length of ribbon to hang. Please see the listing photos for details. Take home a piece of history!

This piece is approximately 3 inches by  4.25 inches and is .75 inches in depth.