A roman amethyst intaglio. Two soldiers.

2nd century B.C.

14x16x6 mm

Slightly convex on the engraved side. A standing soldier with crested helmet is carrying the lima body of a dead fellow. Each wears a cuirass over a short chiton. Groundline. Similar gems with same subject referenced and classified as etruscanizing group III by Richter. Parallel: for a similar depiction see Richter M.A, Catalogue of engraved gems, 2006, pl.XXXIV, 218

Provenance: UK private collection.

Estimate: GBP 500 - 800