A late republican roman garnet intaglio. Tripod burning altar.
1st century B.C.
13 x 15 x 6 mm

This burning brazier is engraved in a convex stone of an attractive vivid color. Characterized by three anthropomorphic legs as formed by phallic herms. These herms show a marked musculature and erected phalli. One of these elements is viewed from the backside giving to the gem a tridimensional effect. In the upper part, the deeply engraved and ornated container shows flames on the top. In the field, three latin letters: MET. Wear marks. Rare subject.