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© Bruce M. White, 2021.
Intaglio with Bust of Zeus-Serapis
© Bruce M. White, 2021.
© Bruce M. White, 2021.
© Bruce M. White, 2021.
ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art

Intaglio with Bust of Zeus-Serapis

AAT Object Form/Functionbusts (general, figures)
AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)
AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)
CultureGreek
Date1st Century BCE
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
Dimensions1/2 x 3/8 x 1/8 in. (1.3 x 1 x 0.3 cm)
Object number2008.031.010
Label TextBust of Zeus-Serapis facing left. He has a full beard, shoulder-length, wavy hair, and wears a woven basket (modius) as a sign of fertility on the crown of his head.

The motif echoes the appearance of the cult statue of Serapis in his temple in Alexandria. The god was popularised by Ptolemy I Soter and his worship spread rapidly through the 2nd and 1st centuries BC.
ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California.
Status
Not on view
Collections
  • Greek and Roman Art
Technical Notes