A roman black onyx intaglio. Gryllos and greek inscriptions....
A roman black onyx intaglio. Gryllos and greek inscriptions.
1st - 2nd century A.D.
12 x 16 x 3 mm
The hybrid creature is facing left, and composed by a Silenus mask, an head of elephant holding a caduceus. On the top, an horse protome, and on the lower part, cock's legs. The monstruous and apotropaic beast is surrounded by greek inscriptions meaning Orion. Probably referred to the astrological constellation. The stone is finely and deeply engraved with mirror polishing. The surface presents ancient wear marks. Interesting apotropaic composition. Rare.
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
A roman black onyx intaglio. Gryllos and greek inscriptions.
1st - 2nd century A.D.
12 x 16 x 3 mm
The hybrid creature is facing left, and composed by a Silenus mask, an head of elephant holding a caduceus. On the top, an horse protome, and on the lower part, cock's legs. The monstruous and apotropaic beast is surrounded by greek inscriptions meaning Orion. Probably referred to the astrological constellation. The stone is finely and deeply engraved with mirror polishing. The surface presents ancient wear marks. Interesting apotropaic composition. Rare.