Davenport, Iowa (February 2, 2016) – For the first time in 40 years, a fine selection of gems from a collection of more than 400 cameo and intaglio stones will be on display in the Figge’s Lewis Gallery for the Cameo Stones: Hidden Gems in the Figge Collection exhibition opening Saturday.
Donated in 1929 by Dr. Clarence T. Lindley, the cameo and intaglio gems reflect the changing ideas and prominent beliefs of society and became a popular fashion accessory in the Victorian Era.
More than a decorative art, gem engraving has served to document unique aspects of culture throughout history. Intaglio gems—the process of inscribing into the surface of a stone—were first used as stamping seals by tradesmen, rulers and warriors to mark ownership. They date back to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Using new hardstone materials, Greek gem engravers would further develop the intricate art of stone carving. By using the multiple colored layers of the stones, Greek artisans carved away the layers of material to leave a low relief form called the cameo.
Unlike the functional intaglio seals, cameos were popular as ornamental jewelry because the delicate and sometimes elaborate carvings were highly visible. The small size and durable material allowed cameos to pass down through generations and survive hundreds of years to remain a highly sought-after jewelry adornment.
This exhibition will be on view February 6-May 15, 2016.
Companion Event:
Curator Talk: Cameo Stones
7 p.m. Thursday, March 17 (FREE)
Robin Hill, preparator and assistant registrar at the Figge, will speak in the Lewis Gallery about curating the Cameo Stones from the C.T. Lindley Cameo and Intaglio Collection. This collection of 19th century cameos and intaglios is a compilation of antique engraved gems, including those from a wide array of subjects and materials.
About the Figge Art Museum
The Figge Art Museum is located on the riverfront in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays the museum is open until 9 p.m. Admission to the museum and tour is $7. Admission is always free to Figge members and institutional members, and free to all on Thursday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org.
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