A rare roman garnet intaglio. Hybrid female creature.

2nd - 3rd century A.D.

9 x 12 x 3 mm

The monstrous creature is formed by a human body with bird legs, similar to the harpies (which are usually winged). The figure advances to the left, holding a purse for money with her right hand and a palm frond with her left. Apotropaic depiction referable to good luck. Attractive vivid color of the convex stone. Mirror polishing. Rare and unusual iconography.

U.K. private collection, London.

Estimate: GBP 400 - 800