ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Intaglio Gem Depicting a Scorpion
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date2nd-mid 3rd Century CE
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
Dimensions5/16 x 1/4 x 1/16 in. (0.8 x 0.7 x 0.2 cm)
Object number2012.032.195
Label TextYellow jasper was considered an effective painkiller against scorpion stings, either placed directly on the sting, ground up and applied as an ointment, or mixed with wine and ingested (Socrates and Dionysus 39.1-4). Jasper stones bearing an image of a scorpion, some with additional magical inscriptions, were likely worn as protective amulets to keep scorpions at bay.Exhibition HistoryMaking 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.
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
1076-723 BCE
664-180 BCE
late 2nd Century CE
2nd-3rd Century CE
1st Century CE
664-589 BCE
second half 1st Century BCE
late 1st Century BCE-1st Century CE
ca. 1600 BCE
722-332 BCE
539-479 BCE
