ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Intaglio Gem Depicting an Elephant Pulling a Mouse in a Chariot
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date3rd Century CE
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
Dimensions7/16 x 9/16 x 3/16 in. (1.1 x 1.4 x 0.5 cm)
Object number2012.032.068
Label TextA number of popular gem motifs play on the tension between gems’ tiny size and their powerful agency as objects. Here, a mouse drives a chariot pulled by an elephant, just as the miniature gem directs and informs the authority and identity of its wearer. Such humorous images also emphasized the immense skill of engraver, who conveyed so much within such a small space.Exhibition HistoryMaking an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022
Published ReferencesGorny & Mosch, Kunstobjekte der Antike, Auktion 119 (16. Oktober 2002), 56, lot 3272.
Andew Goldman, "The Octagonal Gemstones from Gordion: Observations and Interpretations," Anatolian Studies 64 (2014), catalogue number G105.
ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, purchased from Gorney & Mosch, Munich, Germany, October 15, 2002, lot 3272.
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
1st Century BCE
3rd Century CE
1st Century BCE
2nd Century CE
early 1st Century CE
1st-2nd Century CE
1st Century BCE
1st Century CE
late 1st Century BCE
late 1st Century BCE-1st Century CE
