Gem

29-128-573

From: Mediterranean

Curatorial Section: Mediterranean

View All (6) Object Images

Object Number 29-128-573
Current Location Collections Storage
Culture Roman | Gnostic
Provenience Mediterranean
Period Late Antique Period
Section Mediterranean
Materials Hematite
Technique Intaglio
Iconography Cock-Head God | Snake
Description

Sommerville: Hematite. A grand piece of great value. Intaglio-work equally decorating both convex and flat sides. Abraxas, Gnostic Gems, Etc, Case HH.

Vermeule: Hematite. Intaglio. [In scarab form] Unmounted. Convex side: Figure of cock-headed god. Reverse: A snake with radiate crown flanked by birds and animals in threes. For an explanation of the symbolism see Sommerville p. 705 where a charming Victorian interpretation is presented. Amulet

Height 4.2 cm
Width 3.2 cm
Credit Line Bequest of Maxwell Sommerville, 1904
Other Number 573 - Sommerville Gem Number

Report problems and issues to digitalmedia@pennmuseum.org.