ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Cast Gem Depicting a Bust of Hercules
CultureRoman
PeriodImperial
Date1st Century CE
MediumGlass (manufactured)
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin
DimensionsOverall: 3/8 × 7/16 × 1/16 in. (1 × 1.1 × 0.2 cm)
Object number2012.032.251
Label TextCatering to a less affluent clientele, mould-made glass gems replicated the colors of more costly hardstones. Green gems, including emerald and chrome-chalcedony, all identified in Latin as smaragdus, were especially popular, and glass equivalents are numerous. This example shows a bust of the hero Herakles gazing left.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.
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
3rd-2nd Century BCE
early 1st Century CE
48-47 BCE
1st Century BCE
late 2nd Century CE
1st Century BCE
ca. 77-78 CE
3rd Century CE
