ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art

Intaglio Gem Depicting a Mounted Jockey

CultureRoman

Periodlate Republic - early Imperial

Dateearly 1st Century CE

MediumMicrocrystalline quartz, var. carnelian

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin

Dimensions5/16 x 7/16 x 1/16 in. (0.8 x 1.1 x 0.2 cm)

Object number2008.031.029

Label TextThe device on this gem depicts a young male jockey, holding a crop in one hand and the horse’s reins in the other. Underneath, a winged tablet (tabula ansata) contains a Latin inscription, carved in retrograde: APOLL. F. The motif likely signified success or good luck and may have been especially appropriate for a young soldier or athlete. The inscription may be an abbreviation of APOLLONIDES FELIX (“Lucky Apollonides”), giving the name of the owner of the gem and suggesting that it was worn as an amulet to secure his good fortune. The tabula ansata was used as a framing device for votive dedications, curses, prayers, and amulets in various media, and on magical gems often contains exhortations for good health and favor.
Exhibition HistoryMaking an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022
Published ReferencesMichael C. Carlos Museum: Highlights of the Collections (Atlanta: Michael C. Carlos Museum, 2011), 58-59.

ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, purchased from Frank Sternberg AG, Zurich, Switzerland.

Status

Not on view

Collections