Four Treasures Reference Database
Record No. 27072

A Descriptive Atlas of the Cesnola Collection of Cypriote Antiquities in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Book
di Cesnola, L.P. (1885–1903) A Descriptive Atlas of the Cesnola Collection of Cypriote Antiquities in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Boston, New York, J.R. Osgood, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 3 Vols.
Sinkankas/Born No.: NIS/NIB  |  RWHL
gems, glyptic, engraved gems, agate, cameo, intaglio, seals, cylinders, collection, comparanda, catalogue, Cyprus, Greece, Greek
An illustrated catalogue of the Cesnola collection of Cypriote antiquities, presenting objects through plates and accompanying descriptions intended to support comparative archaeological study. Of particular gemological interest is the third volume (1903), which includes objects in gold and precious stones, rock crystal and glass, together with engraved cylinders and inscribed stones. The descriptions record materials, physical characteristics, decorative details, and reported findspots, including features discernible under magnification but not clearly reproduced photographically. Dating is generally confined to broad periods. The atlas provides an early documentary source for the study of ancient lapidary work, ornament, and the use of gemstones in objects collected in Cyprus.