called ultramarine, is
never deteriorated by the air, and is consequently of the utmost value
to artists. Lapis-lazuli takes a beautiful polish, and is converted
into many exquisite articles of ornament. It is found in Persia,
Siberia, and Chili, but the most esteemed specimens are brought from
China.
APPLICATION TO THE FINE ARTS OF LAPIS-LAZULI.
Lapis-lazuli is frequently engraved, and it is carved also into cups and vases.
The
French crown jewels contained some beautiful objects in lapis-lazuli;
among them a cup in the form of a boat, of large dimensions, and valued
at $37,200, and a sabre with a handle of lapis-lazuli given to Louis
XVI. by Tippoo-Saib, valued at $1116.
Many
beautiful specimens were exhibited at the Paris Exhibition; exquisite
carving by Rudolphi, a marine shell carved of azure lapis-lazuli,
finely mounted by Morrel, and chef-d'oeuvres by Dupon-chel and Jarny.
In the Orlof palace at St. Petersburg some of the apartments are lined with this beautiful stone.
