An illustrated catalogue of 59 engraved gems from the Wright Collection, most of which are from Turkey and Yugoslavia. The collection includes Phoenician and Etruscan scarabs and ringstones and cameos dating from the Hellenistic, Roman, Sasanian, Late Antique, Renaissance and Modern periods. The largest group is Roman and includes gems engraved with deities, Bacchic themes, heroes, symbols, portraits and animals.

This book studies small but highly captivating artworks from antiquity – engraved gemstones. These objects had multiple applications, and the images upon them captured snapshots of people's beliefs, ideologies, and everyday occupations. They provide a unique perspective on the propaganda of Roman political leaders, especially Octavian/Augustus.