Bertolami Fine Art - Riversdell Close 27, KT16 9JW Chertsey
WEB AUCTION 106: Glittica WEB AUCTION 106: Glittica
Friday 12 November 2021 hours 15:00 (UTC +00:00)
A fine neoclassical three layer agate intaglio, set in a postclassical gold ring. Two dogs copulating.
A fine neoclassical three layer agate intaglio, set in a postclassical gold ring. Two dogs copulating.
18th - 19th century
intaglio 19x19x6 mm ; US ring size 7.5 ; 13,4 grs
Rare and unusual representation of two dogs caught in the act of copulating. The two quadrupeds are facing right, inside an ancient Roman residence as symbolized by the presence of a three-footed candelabrum with a lamp on one side, and a jug on the other side. Ground line. The animals are characterized by a marked musculature well engraved in its anatomical details: the effort of the dog that mounts is also expressed by the arching of the vertebral column (whose bones can be seen) and of the thoracic cavity, together with the swelling of the muscles of the thighs and shoulders. His face is leaning upwards, as a sign of success, while the receiving dog is slightly bent forward. Both have the collar. Use of globular elements for the eyes. The carving is performed on a large three-layered sardonyx agate magic eye. The surface shows ancient signs of wear and in transparency also the signs of heat burn. The gem is set in an elegant 19th century gold ring. Grand Tour era. Rare subject.
Cfr.: Beazley Archive n. 90. Two dogs copulating, intaglio in red jasper, shape F1, 12 x 10, 1st cent. BC/AD.
"
U.K. private collection