An fine hellenistic garnet intaglio mounted on an ancient gold ring. Bust of Isis.

2nd-1st century B.C.

Intaglio : 10 x 14 mmRing : 17 x 16 mm7,89 g

With a hollow gold hoop, broad shoulders ending with an oval bezel set with a garnet intaglio. The gem shows the bust of a woman, as Isis, with calamistrated locks, wearing a diadema. Use of globular elements for the eye and the mouth. This is possibly the portrait of a Ptolemaic queen as Isis, perhaps Cleopatra Thea (see Plantzos 52 - 4, pls. 9-11). High convex garnet stone. Mirror polishing. This beautiful intaglio is set on an ancient gold ring. Very fine condition.

Parallels: J. Boardman, C. Wagner, Masterpieces in miniature. Engraved gems from prehistory to the present, p. 131 n. 119; Antiken gemmen in Deutschen sammlungen, band I, Staatliche - Munchen, p. 81 n. 439 (Granat). M.L. Vollenweider, Camées et intaillles, Cabinet des médailles, . 105 n. 92 (Cléopatre I assimilée à Isis).

U.K. private collection, London.

Estimate: GBP 3500 - 6000