ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art
Sealing Depicting Dexiosis Between Jupiter Dolichenus and a Roman Emperor
CultureRoman
PeriodRoman
Datelate 1st Century CE
MediumTerracotta
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. William K. Zewadski
Dimensions3/4 x 11/16 x 3/16 in. (1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 cm)
Object number1996.005.013
Label TextA motif exclusive to the official seals of Doliche shows a bearded Jupiter Dolichenus, the principal deity of Kommagene, shaking hands with a Roman emperor; in this case, perhaps Vespasian (9-79 CE). Both wear a cuirass and ptergytes (leather kilt). Jupiter Dolichenus was the Hellenized version of a local Syrian deity, whose cult became hugely popular with Roman soldiers and eventually spread across the western empire. The handshake, a gesture known as dexiosis, indicates divine support for the city and for Roman rule. The seal may have been used by the members of the god’s official priesthood.Exhibition HistoryMaking an Impression: The Art and Craft of Ancient Engraved Gemstones, Michael C. Carlos Museum, August 27 - November 27, 2022
ProvenanceEx coll. William Knight Zewadski, United States, gift from Fortuna Galleries, New York, New York, 1991.
Status
Not on viewCollections
- Greek and Roman Art
1st-3rd Century CE
1st-3rd century CE
1st-3rd Century CE
1st-3rd Century CE
1st Century CE
1st Century CE
1st-3rd Century CE
1st-3rd Century CE
1st Century CE
1st Century CE
2nd Century CE
