Ancient Roman Layered Agate Intaglio of Emperor Elagabalus

Code: 10445

This is an ancient Roman hardstone intaglio, dating to the 2nd - 3rd century A.D. It is superbly cut on on a banded agate gemstone, with a representation of a laureated head. This appears to represent a young Elagabalus, depicted with effeminate features? The gem is well cut on a high domed surface, originally this piece would have been set into a gold finger ring, worn to authenticate and seal letters. Today it has survived in excellent condition, part of an old collection of intaglios from France.

OBJECT: Intaglio

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 2nd - 3rd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Agate

SIZE: 12mm x 10mm x 7mm 

WEIGHT:  1.29 grams

PROVENANCE: Ex. property of a private collector, Paris