Ca. 1800-1900 AD.
A gold seal with a carnelian intaglio with an engraved profile portrait of a Roman empress, meticulously crafted to capture her likeness with remarkable detail. The empress, possibly Agrippina, is portrayed facing to the right, with a sense of dignity and authority. Her large, expressive eyes draw attention, conveying a sense of wisdom and intelligence. The delicately rendered nose, fleshy lips, and pointed chin contribute to the overall realism of the portrait. The artist has also captured the empress's unique coiffure, which is crowned with a regal headpiece, indicative of her status and noble lineage. The carnelian intaglio is securely set in a gold seal setting, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in the construction of this piece. The gold setting features an oval-shaped frame and elaborate, openwork handle, exemplifying the artistry and skill of the goldsmith. At the top of the handle, there is a suspension loop finial, allowing the seal to be easily attached to a cord or chain.
Size: L:30.4mm / W:26.2mm ; 9.07g
Provenance: Acquired from A.D.; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1980s.