ROMAN ROCK CRYSTAL GRYLLOS INTAGLIO IN GOLD RING
Ca. 100-300 AD.
A rock crystal intaglio bearing an engraved gryllos motif, comprising a bust of left-facing Minerva wearing a plumed helmet, and two bearded men, one in the nape of her neck, the other on top of the head, set in a possibly later gold ring comprising D-shaped hoop with amphora-shaped shoulders. The gryllos (from the Greek for a caricature) is an elusive figure in Roman mythology, who is often depicted as a conjoined old and young man, as in this example, and is commonly associated with the occult. Excellent condition; wearable.
Size: D: 18.54mm / US: 8 1/2 / UK: Q1/2; 14g
Provenance: From the private collection of Mr. R. Unger; previously with a London gallery; acquired in before 2000 on the UK art market.
Estimate: GBP 1500 - 3000