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| CIVILIZATION | Roman |
| PERIOD | Late Roman |
| DATE | circa 4th-5th Century A.D. |
| MATERIAL | Carnelian, Gold, Pearl |
| MOUNTED | No |
The banded carnelian gem carved with the head of Medusa, turned slightly to her right, the chubby face well modeled, framed by curls of hair, mounted in an ancient gold setting of plain twisted wire terminating with two pearls, a suspension loop above. Height of intaglio: 1.2cm
The most ubiquitous subject for cameos is the gorgoneion or mask of Medusa. It occurs as an intaglio device but not with any frequency and it is evident that its use was amuletic; to deflect the Evil Eye and to protect the wearer from harm. It has the same purpose when carved in relief on buildings or gravestones, or incorporated into the design of a mosaic floor. Content Cameos; Introduction to Medusa Masks.
Boardman, J,; Engraved Gems, The Ionides Collection, no. 41, for a medusa of similar profile.
This item qualifies for an interest-free payment plan. This exclusive feature is made available to customers who would like to pay off qualified purchases in installments. Learn More
Free expedited shipping is available on this item. Allow 3-5 business days for delivery to the U.S.A. and Canada. Allow 5-10 business days for international deliveries. Express shipping may be available at checkout. Minor shipping delays may occur. All items are carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival. We ship Monday to Thursday. Learn more
| CATEGORY | Roman |
| PERIOD | Late Roman |
| DATE | circa 4th-5th Century A.D. |
| MATERIAL | |
| MOUNTED | No |