The late eighteenth century in Europe witnessed
a revival of interest in the art, architecture and
literature of antiquity. It became customary for
the sons of wealthy families to embark upon a
‘Grand Tour’ as part of their education and Italy
was the principle destination. The ruins of Rome
and the rediscovery of sites such as Pompeii and
Herculaneum helped to stimulate the market for
antiquities. The purchase of souvenirs abroad,
whether genuine or of recent manufacture,
helped to spread this fashion for the antique.
James Tassie (1735-1799) was one of a number
of highly skilled artists who capitalised on this
demand. Born in Scotland he started his career
as a stonemason before returning to study
sculpture and modelling at the Glasgow
Academy. Having travelled to Dublin in Ireland to
seek commissions, he made the acquaintance of
an amateur gem engraver, Dr Quinn. Together
the two men developed a new type of white
enamel that was ideally suited to portrait
medallions. However it was after relocating to
London in 1766 that Tassie’s career as a gem
engraver really took off. He soon acquired an
international reputation, and received a
commission for 15,000 pieces from Catherine
the Great, Empress of Russia. Many prestigious
European collections were made accessible to
him for the purposes of study. His knowledge of
antique designs was highly esteemed and he was
commissioned to provide designs for Josiah
Wedgwood. In fact his gems and medallions
proved so popular that the business continued to
flourish in the early nineteenth century under the
direction of his nephew William Tassie.
On the smooth surface of the raised oval portion
of this intaglio is the eternally young god of love
Cupid (Eros). This mischievous deity acquired his
traditional appearance through the poets. Usually
depicted naked and often winged, his role was to
inflame the hearts of unsuspecting mortals.
Instead of his usual bow and arrow, Cupid is
seen here carrying a large amphora. The jaunty
walk and carefree attitude are typical traits of the
impish Cupid, beautifully rendered on this
delightful intaglio.
