Intaglio depicting a warrior
19th century
Translucent iridescent chalcedony
Height: 2.05 cm
Excellent condition
The bearded figure is shown in profile, facing left. He is helmeted, wearing a cuirass, and holds a spear and a shield. This type of depiction is inspired by motifs from Roman coinage of the 3rd–4th centuries, used to portray the military image of certain emperors (cf. aureus of Carinus, late 3rd century).
The translucency of this fine iridescent chalcedony enhances the appreciation of the subject when viewed through the light.