Anichini family

Who is Anichini family?

The Anichini family were leading carvers of engraved gems for seals, and medals in Renaissance Italy.

The first known member is Francesco Anichini, who had four sons who followed him in the art. He was the leading gem-cutter in Venice, taking commissions from Isabella d'Este and others.

His sons were:

⁕Alvise Anichini, dates uncertain,

⁕Andrea Anichini, active 1526-1553,

⁕Callisto Anichini, more of a jewellery maker,

⁕Luigi Anichini,. Michelangelo pronounced his gem "Interview of Alexander the Great with the high-priest at Jerusalem", "the perfection of the art". His medals of Henry II of France and Pope Paul III. are greatly valued.