This iridescence, though so beautiful on the specimens of that kind, is only owing to chemical action on the paste gems during the centuries they have been buried in the earth. Interesting intaglios and cameos in enamel have withstood the wear of ages, and are in better condition; the imitations of red jasper are wonderful.
SOMMERVILLE COLLECTION.
1183
1244
1288
ANTIQUE PASTES.
Many intaglios in antique paste are representations in designs of ancient bronzes, of which we have no other trace except their mention by early historians.