gold-glass medallion

Roman art

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

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Gold-glass medallions are a unique form of Roman art, primarily dating from the 3rd and 4th centuries CE. These objects feature gold leaf sandwiched between two layers of glass, often depicting mythological scenes, portraits, or Christian symbols.1

The technique involved cutting out shapes from gold leaf and placing them between two pieces of glass, which were then fused together. This created a durable and visually striking medium. While not as common as other Roman art forms, these medallions offer insight into the artistic tastes and beliefs of the period. They were often used as decorative elements or possibly as amulets.1

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Western painting
Roman paintings
…are the portraits done on gold-glass medallions, which in the exquisite refinement of their treatment may be compared to 16th-century European miniatures. A medallion in the Museum of Christian Antiquities, Brescia, dating from the 3rd century and carrying a portrait group, is a veritable masterpiece.
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…are the portraits done on gold-glass medallions, which in the exquisite refinement of their treatment may be compared to 16th-century European miniatures. A medallion in the Museum of Christian Antiquities, Brescia, dating from the 3rd century and carrying a portrait group, is a veritable masterpiece.
Read More