Homer, after antiquity c. 19th century

Curator: Up next we have a delicate rendition of Homer after antiquity, created by the Pichler family. It’s surprisingly small, only about 3.4 centimeters tall. Editor: There's something so intimate and gentle about it. The pale material gives it a serene, almost ethereal quality. Curator: The Pichler family were renowned for their skill in glyptography, the art of engraving on gems or stones. This piece captures how Homer was imagined long after his time. Notice the idealized features. Editor: Yes, the flowing beard, the thoughtful brow—it’s the image of wisdom. In antiquity, blindness was linked to inner vision, a common trope for poets. Is that echoed here? Curator: Perhaps. But I also see the power of myth-making at play. This isn’t just a portrait; it’s a cultural artifact, shaping our understanding of Homer through a particular lens. Editor: Right, and it shows how societies create icons. Seeing him reimagined like this makes me wonder what people thought of him. Curator: It’s a tangible link to our past, shaped by societal expectations of art. Editor: A beautiful, thoughtful piece, indeed.