Intaglio Gem Depicting Cupid Driving a Two-Horse Chariot

AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)

AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)

AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)

CultureRoman

PeriodImperial

Date2nd Century CE

MediumMicrocrystalline quartz, var. jasper (red)

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin

Dimensions7/16 x 9/16 x 1/16 in. (1.1 x 1.4 x 0.2 cm)

Object number2008.031.321

Label TextImages of cupids riding chariots drawn by a variety of animals are hugely popular in Roman art, including on engraved gemstones. The iconography draws on a common metaphor in Greek and Latin poetry that presents Love as the charioteer of men’s souls (e.g. Lucretius De rerum natura 4.1079-85; Ovid Amores 3.2, Ars amatoria 2.725-34). Gems bearing such motifs may have been given as love tokens.
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
Published ReferencesJesus Vico, S.A., Subasta Numismatica No 103 (November 13, 2003), 8, 62, lot 899.

ProvenanceWith Jesus Vico, S.A., Madrid, Spain, November 13, 2003, lot 899. Ex coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, purchased from Jesus Vico, March 3, 2005.

Status

Not on view

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