For thousands of years, intaglio gems served as a
kind of signature for their owners. In societies
which were largely non-literate, such seals left a
unique mark, a means of distinguishing an
individual's property or his intent. The images
engraved on these gems helped define one's
place in the world, one's status, beliefs, or
political affiliation. This unusual gem depicts a
splendid bird, wings spread, perched atop a
rock. Very likely this is a phoenix, a mythical bird
famous for being reborn from the ashes of
destruction. The phoenix is thus a symbol of
resurrection and renewal. Though we can never
know the identity of its original owner, we can
imagine that person's optimism with this seal
hanging from a cord around their neck. As we
hold it in our hands today, we connect directly
across time with their vanished world.
- (GF.0306)
|
