Did you ever notice the gilded frame that surrounds so many of the antique plaster or sulfur impressions of intaglios and other engraved gems? It is the gilt-edged paper that usually wraps them. If you collect or deal in the impressions from the Grand Tour era, it’s almost commonplace; it’s always there. So, who made the strips? How were they made? I’d sure like to find out.
Left: Partial image of drawer of James Tassie sulfur casts at the V&A
While numerous books and papers have been written about the engraved gems and their impressions, virtually nothing is available about these “frames” which, like the frame on a magnificent painting, provide a means for mounting, and, compliment the beauty of the impression.
Right: Impression in MyI collection with detail showing bottom of paper wrap. Click on image to enlarge.