Christie’s is pleased to announce Part III of Masterpieces in Miniature: Ancient Engraved Gems Formerly in the G. Sangiorgi Collection. Spanning the Greek, Roman and Etruscan worlds from 1700 B.C.-3rd century A.D., in addition to later European examples, the sale comprises 48 lots of the most sought-after and captivating intaglios and cameos still in private hands. The gems presented here once formed part of a much larger collection assembled by Giorgio Sangiorgi (1886-1965), an important Roman dealer, scholar and connoisseur, who operated a gallery in the Palazzo Borghese. Fearful of the impending war, he moved his collection to Switzerland in the late 1930s, where they have remained since.

Highlights include an important Roman Carnelian Ringstone with Two Warriors, circa 1st century B.C., formerly in the Arundel and Marlborough Collections, thought by some scholars to represent Julius Caesar and Octavian; a stunning Greek Orange Onyx Barrel with a Heron, circa late 5th century B.C.; and a large Roman Onyx Cameo with a Reclining Maenad and a Seated Youth, circa 1st century A.D.

Bidding for this online-only sale runs from 1–14 April. All gems will be viewable at Christie’s New York alongside our Classic Week exhibitions from 8–11 April.

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Viewing

8 April, 10am–5pm
9 April, 10am–5pm
10 April, 1pm–5pm
11 April, 10am–5pm