Roman Carnelian Intaglio, Shrimp or Bird, Miniature Engraved Gem

Roman, Imperial period. A miniature oval intaglio of translucent orange-red carnelian. Its flat face is cut with a small creature shown in profile and laid along the long axis of the stone. The figure has been read both as a shrimp and as a bird: a long body and a row of fine projections could be a crustacean's legs and antennae, or the plumage and legs of a perching bird. The image was worked with a wheel and small drills, and it is meant to read the right way round when pressed into wax. Stones like this were usually set in finger rings and used to seal documents and property, and they also worked as personal emblems. Animal and marine subjects were favorite themes for Roman gem cutters, and the warm color of carnelian made it one of their most popular stones. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 204699

Estimate:$250

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