SAPPHO Hand-Painted Silver Pendant on Red Porphyry

This pendant features a hand-painted representation of the ancient Greek poetess Sappho, expertly crafted by artist Tommaso Rossi on rich red porphyry. Set in solid silver, it honors Sappho, the legendary lyric poet whose work transcended the boundaries of time and culture. The deep red tone of the porphyry creates a striking backdrop, enhancing the delicate portrayal of Sappho.

Sappho (c. 630–570 BCE) was a renowned poetess from the island of Lesbos, celebrated for her mastery of lyric poetry, which was often focused on themes of love, beauty, and longing. Known for her passionate, intimate expressions, Sappho's work was revolutionary in its exploration of personal and emotional experiences. Although much of her poetry has been lost, the surviving fragments reveal a profound depth of feeling, making her one of the most influential figures in ancient Greek literature. Her writings, particularly her focus on the nuances of desire and affection, have inspired countless generations and remain a symbol of artistic and emotional expression.

Tommaso Rossi is the talented young artist who creates these exquisite miniature portraits and mythical stories. Working on both marble and hard stone discs, he depicts historical and mythical figures from ancient Greece and Rome, using paints such as enamels, titanium acrylics and graphite. In his amazingly detailed technique, Tommaso employs either an echidna quill or a rose thorn instead of a brush to define the figures on these miniature masterpieces.
Born in Rome in 2000, Tommaso first attended art school on Via Ripetta and then, recognized for his superior talent, he entered the prestigious “Scuola dell’Arte della Medaglia”. This is an elite art school in Rome where only a small number of the finest young artists are carefully chosen for further training in the arts of engraving and plastic modeling.
For more than a century, exceptional artists have acquired additional skills through the use of ancient techniques, innovative methodologies, design and craftsmanship. Importance is also given to art history and conservation. Classical traditions are reimagined, merging Antiquity with present day culture.