The extremely sophisticated technique of engraving of gemstones was one of the most luxurious art forms in the Ancient World. Furthermore, in Ancient Roman culture gemstones were amongst the most expensive and lavish objects and were prized above all other possessions. This type of representation was a popular subject in Ancient Roman art, being an allegory of love. In Ancient Roman culture and mythology, Cupid was the god of love who was capable of making divine or mortal individuals fall in love with his enchanted arrows. Cupid is generally represented as a cute chubby boy with wings, carrying a bow and a quiver of arrows.
To discover more about Eros’ iconography in Antiquity, please visit our relevant blog post: Eros’ Iconography in Classical Times.
