Ancient Roman Augustan Hardstone Cameo pin of Octavia as Diana

Code: 10236

This is an ancient Roman agate cameo, dating to the 1st century A.D. The cameo is very sculptural, the natural layers of the stone have been cut to emphasize the hair, face, and background. The gem appears to have been excavated, later set during the Georgian period into an 18k gold stick pin. The head has facial features reminiscent of Emperor Augustus, the long hair indicates this to be a woman. Possibly the sister of Augustus, 'Octavia' in the guise of Diana?  The stone has some old stress lines, but these are neither cracks or damage but caused by great age. As an ancient cameo, this is a fine piece and wearable!

OBJECT: Cameo

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 1st century A.D.

MATERIAL: Agate

SIZE: 80mm x 22mm ( cameo 24mm x 18mm x 8mm)

WEIGHT: 10.09 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. property of a private collector, Paris.