ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Intaglio Gem Depicting a Mounted Jockey
AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)
AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)
AAT Object Techniqueinscribing
AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)
CultureRoman
Dateearly 1st Century CE
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 viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
282-246 BCE
2nd Century CE
20th Century
20th Century
Giovanni Battista Falda
First published 1677, MCCM edition published ca. 1688
Giovanni Battista Falda
First published 1677, MCCM edition published ca. 1688
1st Century CE
late 19th-20th Century
722-525 BCE
722-525 BCE
