Roman Rock Crystal Bust of Youth

Code: 11553

This is an ancient Roman hardstone cameo head of a youth, dating to the 1st - 2nd century A.D. The gem is nicely cut in-the-round on a rock crystal gemstone. The lower half is chamfered to be set into a gold or silver jewel pendant. The bust is likely that of Eros, with the wings formed in the gold or silver pendant. The oval eyes are drilled and the hair is cut to show form. Glyptics in rock crystal are rare and were highly sophisticated objects often set in jewels. This example has survived in good antique condition with an intact nose and only minor chipping to the lower half.

OBJECT: Cameo

CULTURE: Roman

DATE: c. 1st - 2nd century A.D.

MATERIAL: Rock Crystal

SIZE: 22mm x 17mm x 12mm

WEIGHT: 4.99 grams

PROVENANCE: Formerly in a private collection. Wiltshire.