★ Outstanding Intaglio ★

A VERY FINE ROMAN CARNELIAN INTAGLIO WITH A MALE BUST
Circa late 2nd-3rd century AD.
Attractive and very skilfully carved oval intaglio showing a draped bust of a young man with the attribute of Mercury, the herald's staff (caduceus). The individualised features of the head suggest that a portrait was intended rather than a depiction of the god Mercury. The addition of the herald's staff expresses divine protection. Very minor chips to edge.
H 14 mm Acquired on the Austrian art market. Ex old European private collection.