Carnelian intaglio: Lion-headed serpent
Unknown Artist
ca. 2nd–3rd century CE
Medium
Carnelian, burnt ?
Dimensions
Other: 15/16 x 3/4 x 3/16 in. (2.5 x 1.8 x 0.4 cm)
Classification
Gems
Culture & Period
Roman · Imperial
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of John Taylor Johnston, 1881
Accession Number
81.6.303
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite carnelian intaglio, to the Roman Imperial period around the 2nd–3rd century CE, captures a fantastical lion-headed serpent in intricate detail. Carved from the vibrant red chalcedony known as carnelian—possibly heat-treated or "burnt" to intensify its warm hue—this tiny gem measures just 15/16 x 3/4 x 3/16 inches, perfect for mounting in a ring pendant. Such engraved stones prized in ancient Rome for their dual role as seals and personal talismans, impressing their incised image into wax for authentication or magical protection. The intaglio technique exemplifies Roman mastery ...