Ariel O’Connor

Suzanne Deal Booth Rome Prize
September 1, 2026–July 2, 2027
Profession
Objects Conservator, Department of Conservation and Scientific Research, Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art
Project title
Ancient Inlay Technology: Experimental Archaeology and Cross-Cultural Connections between Italy and China
Project description

I will address critical questions about ancient jade, bronze, and turquoise inlay techniques through a series of experiments to recreate early Chinese inlay workshop practices informed by Italian craft tradition. These inlay crafts are no longer practiced in China, but Italy has a vibrant and continuous tradition of stone inlay through mosaics, micro-mosaics, and pietre dure. With Rome-based artists and jewelers, I will recreate the ancient stone inlay and cast bronze hafts, study ancient mosaics, and visit Roman micro-mosaic studios to understand modern workshop techniques based in 2,000 years of uninterrupted craft tradition. This project is an intersection of conservation, studio art, archaeology, art history, and storytelling. Through a global, multi-cultural lens I aim to improve understanding of the complex structure of craft society and multi-material collaborations in ancient workshops.