Intaglio with Eros

Description This intaglio shows the winged god Eros leaning on a stick he holds in his left hand. Gem engraving was a major art form in ancient Greece and Rome. Precious stones were thought to have healing and protective powers and were used as amulets and seals as well as jewelry. Engraved or incised gems, known as intaglios, were often decorated with winged creatures, such as the Sphinx and griffins. Eros was another popular subject on gemstones.

Exhibitions

• Things With Wings: Mythological Figures in Ancient Greek Art. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore. 2005-2006.
• Things With Wings: Mythological Figures in Ancient Greek Art. Ward Museum, Salisbury. 2009.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore, [date and mode of purchase unknown]; Sadie Jones (Mrs. Henry Walters), New York, 1931, by bequest; Joseph Brummer, Paris and New York, 1941, by purchase [Brummer inv. no. N5143a]; Walters Art Museum, 1942, by purchase.

Credit Museum purchase [formerly part of the Walters Collection], 1942