SF616. Art Deco Gold Pendant with Carnelian

Erotic Intaglio – Carved Carnelian Pendant

The special feature of this 14 -karat gold pendant is the erotic scene engraved into the deep red carnelian. Such a representation, carved into the surface of the stone, is called an intaglio. The history of intaglios dates back to antiquity: Greek and Roman masters immortalized mythological figures, portraits, love scenes, and erotic depictions alike on tiny gemstones.

Erotic imagery in the ancient world was not necessarily considered as secretive or shocking a subject as it was viewed in later eras. The world of love, desire, Eros, and Aphrodite/Venus was a natural part of Greco-Roman art. These motifs appeared on frescoes, statues, utilitarian objects, and small personal gems worn by individuals. Beyond love and sensuality, their meaning could sometimes be connected to fertility or amuletic beliefs.

One of the favored materials for engraved stones was precisely carnelian. Its warm color, ranging from orange-red to deep reddish-brown, fine-grained structure, and easily polishable surface made it particularly suitable for detailed gemstone carving.

However, the history of ancient intaglios did not end with antiquity. From the Renaissance onward, Greek and Roman carved stones once again garnered immense interest, and in the 18–19. th century, a true passion for collecting developed around them. Travelers of the Grand Tour brought back ancient gems and new carvings inspired by ancient art from Italy. Old stones were placed into new gold settings while new intaglios were also crafted following ancient models—including pieces with love and erotic themes.