Intaglio Gem Depicting a Chariot Race

AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)

AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)

AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)

CultureRoman

PeriodRepublic

Date1st Century BCE

MediumMicrocrystalline quartz, var. agate (banded)

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin

Dimensions7/16 x 7/8 x 1/16 in. (1.1 x 2.2 x 0.2 cm)

Object number2008.031.018

Label TextThe use of banded brown and white agate is characteristic of Roman intaglios produced during the Republican period. Many were heat treated to enhance the intensity of the color contrast further. This intaglio depicts a chariot race in the hippodrome: three bigae (two-horse chariots) are shown turning the track, demarcated by the central band of milky white stone, with the turning posts carved in the background. This was the most dangerous part of the race, and one of the horses of the central chariot has stumbled. The stone may have been worn for good luck.
Exhibition HistoryMaking an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022

ProvenanceEx coll. Hubert H Weiser (1908-1989), Los Angeles, California. Ex coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, purchased from Joel Malter (1931-2006) [Joel L. Malter & Co., Inc.], Los Angeles, California, Auction 44, May 29, 1990, lot 892.

Status

Not on view

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