A large roman carnelian intaglio. Head of eagle and initials.
1st - 2nd century A.D.
13 x 15 x 3 mm

The head of the animal is facing left and depicted with aggressive and strong expression. The wide semi-opened beak is very sharp and pointed. The eye is small with a vivid expression. The neck feathers are finely engraved giving an aerodynamic movement. In the field, the letters M-S. The engraving is highly polished and the surface presents slight wear marks. Allegorical depiction of military and politic power of the roman empire.