Roman Carnelian Intaglio of Enthroned Jupiter with Eagle

Roman, Imperial period. An oval carnelian intaglio cut with the enthroned figure of Jupiter, king of the Roman gods. He sits in profile on a high-backed throne, his legs draped in a mantle. One hand rests on a tall scepter and the other holds out a patera, the shallow dish used for pouring offerings. His head appears to wear a helmet or crested headdress. At his feet stands an eagle, his sacred bird and messenger. The engraver cut the throne's legs and crossbars with quick, confident drill and wheel strokes, and the warm translucent red stone sets off the figure well when the gem is held to the light. A stone like this was meant to be set in a signet ring, where its owner could press the god's image into wax as a seal and also invoke his protection. The seated Jupiter with scepter, patera, and eagle comes from the cult statue of Jupiter Optimus Maximus on the Capitoline Hill in Rome. In the Imperial period this image appeared again and again on coins, gems, and votive objects. For the owner of a ring, choosing the supreme state god as a personal seal was a statement of loyalty and piety, and probably also a call for divine protection. In this pose the patera shows the god receiving offerings and returning favor to the people who honor him. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 205529

Estimate:£260.99

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