Bertolami Fine Art - Riversdell Close 27, KT16 9JW Chertsey
WEB AUCTION 106: Glittica WEB AUCTION 106: Glittica
Friday 12 November 2021 hours 15:00 (UTC +00:00)
A rare roman amethyst intaglio. Metamorphosis.
A rare roman amethyst intaglio. Metamorphosis.
1st-2nd Century A.D.
9x12x4 mm
A male character, facing left, is depicted in the act of picking a bunch of grapes from the plant. This plant, characterized by leaves and bunches, ends in a gigantic bunch, from which the character surprisingly emerges. Below, a quadruped standing on the plant, presumably a dog or a feline (panther, symbol of Dionysios ?). This unusual scene is apparently unique, probably referable to the Metamorphoses and the Dionysian context of intoxication and abundance. The stone is characterized by a vivid and luminous color. Very deep carved, despite its small size. Slight signs of wear. Very rare subject.
"
U.K. private collection