A 18th C. Or Earlier Red Jasper Intaglio — Roman Julio-claudian Emperor As Jupiter

Dim. 21 × 28 × 5 mm (0.83 × 1.10 × 0.20 in)
Mounting on request
Europe, 18th century or earlier

The large oval intaglio carved in red jasper depicting a Roman emperor in the guise of Jupiter (Zeus). The figure stands in profile, facing right. Shown nude with an athletic torso, he leans on a large oval shield with his right hand while holding a long spear or sceptre. In his left hand, he brandishes the thunderbolt (fulmen), the characteristic attribute of the king of the gods.

At his feet, to the right, rests a muscled cuirass (lorica musculata) placed on a support, evoking military victory and triumph. A horizontal ground line structures the composition.
The intaglio carving, intended to produce a relief impression on wax or clay, demonstrates careful workmanship with accomplished anatomical rendering and mastery of iconographic attributes.

Condition: Wear marks. Patina and deposits and a very small chip on the edge.

Each piece of jewellery is delivered with an authentification certificate signed by Bianca Massard and Gabriele Vangelli de Cresci experts, including additional documentation if existing and exhaustive description of the piece.
Pictures are part of the description and show state of conservation of the item. For additional pictures please contact us.