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© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University
Finger Ring with Intaglio Gem Depicting Two Mice and a Rooster
© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University
© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University
© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University
ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art

Finger Ring with Intaglio Gem Depicting Two Mice and a Rooster

AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)
AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)
AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)
AAT Object Form/Functionrings (finger jewelry)
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date3rd Century CE
MediumMicrocrystalline quartz, var. carnelian; silver
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
DimensionsOverall: 7/16 × 3/8 in. (1.1 × 1 cm) Hoop diameter (Internal): 11/16 in. (1.7 cm)
Object number2012.032.231
Label TextOctagonal ringstones constitute a distinct class of late Roman gemstones that enjoyed limited popularity in the 2nd-4th centuries CE and may have been produced in central Turkey. The octagonal shape may have appealed to a specific clientele: early Christians associated the number eight with rebirth and new beginnings.

The motif on this gem depicts a mouse riding on the back of a rooster, which grips the tail of a second mouse in its beak. The image of a rooster preying on a mouse was common on gems and may have signaled good luck or prosperity; representations of mice riding roosters were also popular as apotropaic amulets. The intaglio is set in a silver ring, which may indicate the social rank of the owner: according to Pliny (Natural History 33.7), gold rings defined the equestrian and senatorial class, and by the seventh century CE, silver rings may have designated the formerly enslaved (Isidore Etymologies 19.32).
Exhibition HistoryMaking an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022
Published ReferencesAndew Goldman, "The Octagonal Gemstones from Gordion: Observations and Interpretations," Anatolian Studies 64 (2014), catalogue number G102.
ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, acquired from Joel Malter (1931-2006) [Joel L. Malter & Co., Inc.], Los Angeles, California, June 23, 2001.
Status
Not on view
Collections
  • Greek and Roman Art