ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Intaglio Gem Depicting Chnoubis
AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)
AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)
AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)
AAT Object Techniqueinscribing
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date2nd-3rd Century CE
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
DimensionsOverall: 3/8 × 1/2 × 1/4 in. (1 × 1.3 × 0.6 cm)
Object number2008.031.107
Label TextAccording to the Greek physician Galen, wearing an image of the radiated lion-headed serpent god Chnoubis engraved on a light green stone cured stomach ache, heart burn and other abdominal ailments (De simpl. 10, 19; see also Socrates and Dionysius no. 35). A Greek inscription across the center of the gem invokes the god by name (‘XNOUMIC’), and the back of the stone is inscribed with the so-called Chnoubis-sign, a triple-barred ‘S’ that relates to the Egyptian deity Kenmet, one of twelve decans linked to the zodiac. Above Chnoubis’ head, another inscription lists the seven Greek vowels, ‘AEHIOU’. In magical lore, each letter was associated with one of the seven planets, here enhancing the efficacy of the amulet by harnessing their combined celestial power.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 Edward J. Waddell, Maryland, February 14, 1994.
InscribedXNOUMIC; AEHIOU
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
Giovanni Battista Piranesi
1769
Giovanni Battista Piranesi
1769
2nd Century BCE
722-332 BCE
282-246 BCE
mid 20th Century
1st Century CE
early 4th Century BCE
1st Century BCE
1st-2nd Century CE