Roman Nicolo Gemstone with Theseus Holding Sword
3rd century A.D.. The oval intaglio with nude youthful Theseus to left, holding a sword in sheath with belt for attachment. Cf. Walters, H.B., Catalogue of Engraved Gems & Cameos, Greek, Etruscan & Roman in the British Museum, London, 1926, no.1909, for similar.
1.08 grams, 15 mm (1/2 in.).
Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s.Important North West London collection. Theseus was one of the greatest and most popular heroes of Greek mythology and is closely associated with the city-state of Athens. Theseus is also known for many other adventures: however, he is more famous for slaying the Minotaur at the Labyrinth of Crete.