A neoclassical sard intaglio. Two erotes prepare garlands of flowers.
20 x 26 x 5,5 mm
On the left, an erote is seated on a rock in the act of creating a garland of flowers (presumably roses); on the rock a burning torch is laid facing outwards (with allegorical as well as decorative meaning). On the right, a second erote is standing and facing his companion, in the act of taking the flowers from a basket and offering them; this second erote wears a bow with a bow hanging by his side. Ground line. Below, in the exergue, the signature in Greek characters: LIKOC ("Likos"). The Likos signature appears on some intaglios executed for the Polish prince Stanislao Poniatowski (see Beazley Archive, Gem Database). Typically neoclassical mythological scene, characterized by grace, harmony and classicism, inspired by the neoclassical bas-reliefs by Bertel Thorvaldsen. The refined execution, perfectly balanced, seems to approach the manner of Giovanni Settari (1773 - post 1834). The cherubs are characterized by finely engraved bodies: every anatomical detail of the body, wings and hair is expertly mirror polished. Slight wear marks. Two small holes on the edge, probably as a housing for the seal frame. Attractive stone tones and extraordinary mirror polishing.
First twenty years of the 19th century.