Grand Tour Cased Plaster Impronte from Thomas Cade circa 1830

One of the more esteemed makers of impronte was Thomas Cade, whose father was a graveur of gemstones. This cased collection of 300 plaster intaglios is presented in six numbered wooden trays which stack neatly. The top tray has a cover with a label intact on the inside noting the maker.

 Chez Thomas Cades Graveur en pierres fines.                                                             Rue du Cours, No. 28 au second ètage a Rome

Each intaglio is numbered on its paper surround. The first tray contains impronte of Greek Philosopher Plotinus, Romulus the legendary founder of Rome, and Scipio Aemilianus the Roman General, to note a few. 

The detail in rendering each intaglio is incredible. A delicate necklace, the layering of fabric, the double chins of an emperor, and the hundreds of distinct hair styles. 

A rare intact collection, the likes of which are typically seen only in museums. Each tray measures 12.75" x 8" x 1.25"