Ancient Roman Jasper Intaglio with a Portrait of a Woman

GBP 1,250.00

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Object Description

A finely carved and excellently preserved jasper intaglio from the Ancient Roman period that depicts the portrait of a woman. Pictured in a profile stance, the noble woman wears a loosely-draped tunic, while her plaited hair is fixed into a neatly arranged bun. Some slaves would specialise in curling and plating hair along the top or back of the head. These simplistic hairstyles were common during the early years of the Roman Empire, fake curls were also popular. As the years progressed, more elaborate hairstyles were desired. The reverse of this piece is highly polished and has been left undecorated; such simplicity allows for appreciation of the richly coloured semi-precious stone and mineral inflexions, as well as its bevelled-cut edges.

Date: Circa 1st – 2nd Century AD

Object History

From a gentleman’s London collection, formed in the 1990s.

Object Condition

Extremely fine condition. Minor scratches to the surface consistent with age.

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:1.2 x H:1.6 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44 (0)208 364 4565
Mobile
+44 (0)7833231322
Web
Email

Dealer Location

The Gallery
Trent Park Equestrian Centre
Eastpole Farm House, Bramley Road
Oakwood, N14 4UW, United Kingdom

St James's Ancient Art
10 Charles II Street, Ground Floor
St James
London
SW1Y 4AA

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