A quartz fumé intaglio set in a metal seal mounting. Portrait of Isaac Newton.

18th century

intaglio: 20 x 23 mm ; 16.74 gr

Bust of Sir Isaac Newton, bareheaded and wearing a contemporary dress, facing left; a star behind his head. Sir I. Newton (1643-1727) was a favourite subject for English seals and engraved by talented artists as Christopher Seaton, Cave, Wray and Burch. This beautiful work is set in a metal mounting as seal. Attractive brightness of the quartz, faceted on the edge.Very fine condition.

Parallels: M. Henig, Classical gems. Ancient and modern intaglios and cameos in the Fitzwilliam Museum. Cambridge, p. 308 n. 644.

Estimate: GBP 550 - 950