ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Intaglio Gem Depicting a Hand Pinching an Earlobe and an Inscription
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date3rd Century CE
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
Dimensions3/8 x 5/16 x 1/16 in. (1 x 0.8 x 0.2 cm)
Object number2012.032.209
Label TextA hand pinches an earlobe between thumb and forefinger. Around the top perimeter of the gem is a retrograde inscription in Greek: MNHMONEYE ("Remember"). The motif is unusual on intaglio-carved gems, but appears commonly on cameos. Here, however, abrasion to the edges of the intaglio face indicates that the gem was mounted with the carved side facing inwards, so the inscription could be read left to right on the stone. Such gems were likely given by lover's as tokens of remembrance.
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, purchased from Superior Stamp & Coin, Los Angeles, California, May 30, 1995.
InscribedMNHMONEYE
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
late 1st Century BCE-1st Century CE
mid to late 2nd century CE
2nd Century CE
early 1st Century CE
1st Century CE
early 1st Century CE
1st Century BCE
