A roman carnelian intaglio set in a gold ring. Perseus and Andromeda.

2nd century A.D.

Stone 17 x 21 mm; ring size 13 x 19 mm; 7,74 gr.

The hero is standing, with the body turned to the left but with the head to the right. With his right hand he holds the sword, while with the left he holds the head of Medusa. The hero is naked and wears only a cloak and a phrygian hat. On the right is Andromeda, seated on a rock, holding her shield. Chip on the edge. The scene is well composed, probably inspired by a lost mosaic or fresco (mosaics show a similar scene, with Perseus holding the sword in the act of showing Andromeda the head of Medusa as from Pompei, than Naples, Archeological Museum). The large gem is set in a fine later mounting; the rod of the ring ends with three leaves to support the bezel. Wear marks. Rare.

Provenance: UK private collection.

Estimate: GBP 2000 - 3000