A roman rock crystal intaglio. Diogenes in his pithos.

1st century B.C.

13x15x3 mm

The old philosopher is shown facing left, the upper part of his body outside from the pithos and holding a papyrus (?). This iconography is linked to the famoust greek philosopher’s lifestyle, far from social conventions and affluence he was renowned for fleeing comfort, sleeping in a simple pithos. Extraordinary work engraved on a very thin gem with the backside slightly cabochon. Parallel: AGDM (Munchen) n. 2757. AGDS Munchen, vol. 2 n. 1007-1008.

Provenance: UK private collection.

Estimate: GBP 1000 - 2000