Double-Sided Intaglio Gem Depicting Hercules and the Nemean Lion and A Portrait Head of Socrates

AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)

AAT Object Form/Functionportraits

AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)

AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)

Possible OriginAmasya, Turkey, Asia

CultureRoman

PeriodRepublican-Imperial

Date1st Century CE

MediumMicrocrystalline quartz, var. carnelian

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin

Dimensions11/16 x 1/2 x 3/16 in. (1.7 x 1.3 x 0.5 cm)

Object number2008.031.034

Label TextSide A: A nude, beardless Hercules stands left on a short groundline, wrestling the lion, which confronts him upright and digs its claws into his thighs. Side B: Portrait head of Socrates to right.

Hercules's combat the with Nemean Lion is the most popular of the hero's labors on Roman gemstones, typically on red stones such as jasper or cornelian. The combination was thought to protect the wearer from colic, and many examples are also inscribed with magical incantations that indicate their use as amulets.
Exhibition HistoryMonsters, Demons & Winged Beasts: Composite Creatures in the Ancient World, Michael C. Carlos Museum, February 5 - June 19, 2011
Making an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022

ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, purchased from Superior Stamp and Coin, Los Angeles, California, 1974.

Status

Not on view

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