A fine roman carnelian intaglio. Portrait of Maecenas.

1st century B.C. - 1st century A.D.

9 x 12 x 3 mm

This fine portrait, facing left, is characterized by physiognomic details expertly engraved, referable to known models identifiable as portraits of the famous roman character. The naturalistic and expressive features of the face, which reveal an advanced age, are inspired by the late Republican portraits. Slight wear marks.

See parallels: Boston, Museum of Fine Arts: 99.112; Story-Maskelyne, M.H.: The Marlborough Gems (1870): no. 517Boardman, J., Scarisbrick, D., Wagner C., Zwierlein-Diehl, E: The Marlborough Gems (2009): no. 209

U.K private collection, London.

Estimate: GBP 500 - 1000