Large Roman Green Jasper Intaglio of Medusa

£ 4,250.00

An exceptional deep green jasper intaglio engraved with the head of Medusa depicted in three-quarter view. The Gorgon is shown with a sorrowful expression, with full pursed lips and large eyes gazing up. Her curling hair, transformed into entangled snakes frames her face, and large wings above her head flank a pair of rearing serpents. A further pair of snakes are tangled in a knot below her chin. The image is depicted with striking delicacy and attention to detail showing contrasting textures of feathers and scales, tangled hair and smooth skin.

Date: 1st century AD
Provenance: Acquired in Switzerland 1970-1980. From a London, UK, collection.
Condition: Excellent condition. The image is clear and and the stone is intact. There is minor chipping on the lower left and right hand side edge of the intaglio, however that doesn't damage the image. Some surface scratches consistent with age.
Product Code: RES-244
Categories: , Tags: , ,

The gorgon Medusa, best known for her hair comprised of snakes and her mythological death at the hands of the hero Perseus, was a popular subject in Ancient Greek art. Despite her often monstrous appearance, it was believed that images of Medusa had apotropaic powers and could ward off evil and bad luck.

Medusa was not, however, always depicted as entirely monstrous; in this case her snake-like hair and zoomorphic features are accompanied by a tormented but classical face. This alludes to the version of the myth in which her monstrous form was the result of having been cursed out of spite due to her beauty. The addition of the Herakles knot under her chin was thought to add further protective benefits, as well as carrying fertility and healing powers.

Weight 1.34 g
Dimensions L 2.1 x W 1.6 cm
Region

Southern Europe

Roman Mythology

Medusa

Semi-Precious Stone

Jasper

Reference: For a similar intaglio, Bonhams Antiquities auction, 28 October 2009, lot 322

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