Valerio Belli

Valerio Belli (c. 1468-1546), also known as Valerio Vicentino, was an Italian Renaissance gem engraver, medalist, and goldsmith from Vicenza. He worked at the papal courts under Pope Clement VII and Pope Paul III, producing rock crystal intaglios, struck medals, and engraved gems that Giorgio Vasari said "surpassed the ancients in delicacy and design."

Belli was a pioneer of rock crystal engraving, creating scenes from the life of Christ and processional compositions with a cool, classical elegance drawn directly from ancient Roman models. His intaglios and medals were prized by Renaissance collectors for their technical precision and refined aesthetic. Our collection features 6 works at the Cleveland Museum of Art.