Sappho

Art Historical Context

**Sappho** by Maurice Dumont (1851–1875) is a captivating glyptograph—a specialized print created from an engraved gem or intaglio stone—housed in the National Gallery of Art's Rosenwald CollectionDepartment CG-E). Produced during the mid-19 century, this work reflects the era's fascination with classical antiquity when artists and collectors revived ancient motifs through innovative reproductive techniques. Dumont, a French engraver known for his precise gem impressions, captures the legendary poetess Sappho, whose lyrical verses on love and beauty inspired generations. Glyptography, the art...