gems, ancient gems, glyptic, archaeology, archaeogemology, ancient history, Greek, Roman

Sinkankas: The preface notes that “the present volume is largely based on materials collected for a revision of the original work by Mr. A.H. Smith, the late Keeper,” though many recent acquisitions and previously omitted gems and pastes have now been incorporated. This excellent and much sought-after catalogue begins with a detailed history of the museum’s large and significant collection, followed by an in-depth discussion of the types of gemstones used, ancient lapidary techniques, gem engravers, and the broader history of gem engraving in antiquity—an important and substantial part of the introduction. The catalogue itself covers scarabs, cameos, and intaglios, along with various figures carved in the round and several vases adorned with engraved decoration.