The Lewis Collection of Gems and Rings in the Possession of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge : With an Introductory Essay on Ancient Gems

Published in 1892, Middleton's catalogue describes the extensive collection of engraved gems and rings at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. Middleton, who was a Professor of Fine Art, describes how these ancient gems were acquired, and outlines how they both exemplify important Greek sculpture and illustrate ancient myths and rituals.

Containing an introductory essay on ancient gems, J. H. Middleton's work of 1892 catalogues the extensive and fascinating collection of engraved gems at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. Middleton, who was a Professor of Fine Art and Director of the Fitzwilliam Museum, describes how the collection was acquired by the Reverend S. S. Lewis on his frequent visits to Italy, Greece and more distant Oriental countries. The catalogue demonstrates that the gems are more remarkable for their interesting subjects than for any exceptional beauty as works of art. The reader is shown how the gems represent important works of Greek sculpture, present examples of the work of Italian Renaissance artists, and illustrate myths and rituals of ancient times. The book will be of interest to students of glyptic art, and anyone interested in classical learning, the development of Christianity and the Renaissance of classical art.