La glyptique : du berceau des civilisations à nos jours, un art millénaire en constante évolution

Abstract

The art of stone or gem engraving was invented at the dawn of civilizations. It has played an essential role in the history of art and culture from its start to nowadays, evolving over the centuries to become a means of artistic expression. The earliest forms of glyptic art were observed among ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, around 4,000 BC. Engraved cylindrical seals and scarabs served both as objects of art and means of personal identification. Glyptic art reached its first peak in Greece and Rome. Talented artisans produced intaglios featuring mythological motifs, portraits, and historical scenes, used as personal seals, jewelry, amulets, and collectibles. Throughout the ages of medieval Europe, the art of glyptics survived mainly through ancient collections and a few scattered monastic workshops. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in engraved gemstones, with the development of a new form of tourism driven by the bourgeoisie. Glyptic art experienced its second peak in the 18th-19th centuries with the fashion for cameos. Today, glyptic art is gradually making a comeback, not only drawing the interest of collectors of ancient pieces but also coming back to the front of the jewelry scene.