Ancient Roman Carnelian Intaglio of Minerva

Object Description

An Ancient Roman carnelian intaglio of Minerva. She is depicted fully draped, standing right. Behind, in her right arm, she holds a transverse spear, with a shield resting on the ground below to the left. Her left hand is outstretched before her and holds a curling snake. The reverse of the intaglio is flat and covered by rusting from the original ring setting. The carnelian presents a beautiful orange-red colouring, and features a white striation on its base.

Date: Circa 1st – 3rd Century AD

Object Condition

Fine condition. Dark encrustations to the surface. Remnants of the original ring encasement still visible to edges and reverse. Signs of wear, such as minor scratches as well as chips to the base and edges, as consistent with its age.

Object Details