Jon Freeman is the Artisan behind Tiberian Design, and art and antique studio based in San Francisco.

His framed intaglio seals are limited edition three-dimensional plaster casts of rare Greek and Roman Intaglio seals. Historically accurate, each frame is made in Tiberian’s workshop following old world techniques known only to a handful of master artisans. Each frame is handcrafted, painted and parcel gilt with 23k gold leaf.

About Neo-Classical Roman Intaglio Seals

After the revival of civilization and literature in Europe, there arose among those of learning and rank a rivalry for the preservation of the relics of ancient art. The enlightened Medici family acquired early eminence in this noble pursuit. Among the most valued treasures bequeathed to us from antiquity, engraved seals were prominently distinguished; and justly so, because the ancient pictures had all perished, except some frescoes, and very few statues survived the test of time and barbarism.

Engraved seals were held in the highest esteem, not merely for the purity, brilliancy, rarity and costliness of the stones, but also for the fact that they represented a connnecting link between the rival and sister arts of painting and sculpture, preserving the excellence of both. While they present to us the delicacy and animation of portraiture, they possess the boldness and three-dimensional solidity of statues, exemplifing the pinnacle of the artistical talent, grace and skill of the ancients.