Outstanding Neo-Classical intaglio in chalcedony by Settari. Diana.

Extraordinary and rare neoclassical chalcedony intaglio made and signed by Giovanni Settari (1773 - post 1834). Diana. The deity, depicted while gently advancing, holds a bow in her right hand, while extracting an arrow from the quiver on her shoulder with the left one. The intaglio is executed according to an exquisite technical mastery. Every detail is skillfully rendered, and impressive mirror-finish polished. The face, hands and feet are engraved with great art, appearing extremely beautiful. The dress, which is moved by the wind as the hair is, elegantly leaves one breast unveiled; the draping is traced according to that typical style that Settari utilized in order to represent figures such as Ebe, or flying personifications. Indeed, the artist is well known for having got inspired by Thorvaldsen's works, many of whom (bas-reliefs) Settari engraved on gems. Vertical signature behind the figure: SETTARI. References: Memorie Enciclopediche Romane, IV, 1808, p.157, Tambroni 1814; Keller 1824, p.58; Keller 1830, p. 108; Brancadoro 1834, p. 64; Righetti 1952, p. 86; Bulgari II, 1959, p.399; Pirzio Biroli Stefanelli 1998, p.17, nota 18, fig.7. L. Pirzio Biroli Stefanelli, La collezione Paoletti . Stampi in vetro per impronte di intagli e cammei, (vol.2), impronte Tomo VII n. 46-47,49,86; Tomo VIII nn. 164, 186; Tomo IX, 323,330,358. mm 46 x 26 x 4
Ending of 18th - beginning of 19th century