Best of Etsy : Intaglios
Hi everyone, happy Friday! I’ve got a fun Best of Etsy post for you today, featuring one of my favorite types of art: intaglios. Have you noticed more of these displayed in your feed lately? I think they’re definitely gaining popularity, but these plaster or stone engravings, etchings, casts, or reliefs have been around forever. Over a decade ago, I remember standing in front of Pitti Tondo at the Museo Nazionale del Bargello in Italy being totally mesmerized by Michelangelo’s work. I spent hours in front of it for a class project with my sketch book and charcoal trying to capture this three dimensional work on paper. That was the first time I had seen such a large casting relief in person (it measures almost 32″ round). Since then, intaglios & reliefs have been on my design radar. These unique and gorgeous works don’t just belong in museums- I love seeing them displayed as art in our homes. Intaglios are a great way to add interest, texture, and dimension to your art collection and walls. Click through to see some really beautiful ones I found on Etsy this month…
All of the images throughout this post are linked in the roundup from small Etsy shops! Be sure to click through if you see any you love, or to explore the shops further.
The thing I love most about these dimensional and textural pieces is the classical aesthetic they bring to a space. It’s the most interesting kind of artwork that really pulls you in for a closer look. Sometimes they’re framed, sometimes they’re installed as is, and sometimes the vintage ones are just a piece of a larger cast or engraving that has split over time. It’s all apart of their charm!
Ready to see my finds? There were so many beautiful options to choose from. Some are reproductions, some are vintage, and some offer a modern take on the intaglio or plaster cast.
Shop my finds by clicking directly on each intaglio below…
I’d love to hear your favorites! I may have purchased one from the roundup to install in my home office. Any guesses which one? I’ll give you a hint- it’s floral!
Intaglios come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The tiny ones look really beautiful when framed- and are often grouped together in a frame for a larger sense of scale.
Some have a really large scale, that would be beautiful on their own or installed as a part of a gallery wall. I’m kind of partial to the small and medium sized ones because I love that it forces the viewer to get a bit closer to examine the art.
Have you also been noticing more intaglios? Which style do you prefer- the classical Greek & Roman cameos or the modern options… like organic cast florals? How about size? I really love them all and appreciate their unique texture and material! I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend ahead. I’ll be lounging and taking it easy this weekend into next week, so I’m not sure when we’ll chat next. I’ll talk to you soon though!
