Ancient Roman Silver Pendant, Eros Riding a Hippocampus Intaglio

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Ancient Roman silver pendant set with an oval green intaglio gem engraved with a mythological scene. The gem depicts a youthful figure, possibly Eros (Cupid), riding a Hippocampus, the mythical creature combining the forepart of a horse with the tail of a fish. The figure sits astride the animal while the Hippocampus advances with raised forelegs and a stylised fish tail extending behind. The engraved gem is set within an oval silver bezel with an integral suspension loop above, allowing the piece to be worn as a pendant. -> Such pendants incorporating engraved gems were worn as personal ornaments and could also function as protective amulets. -> The hippocampus is a mythical sea monster with the upper body of a horse and the lower body of a fish. It is shared by Phoenician, Pictish, Roman and Greek mythology. In antiquity, poets and artists often attached the animal to the chariot of Poseidon. The hippocampus symbolizes water, power, bravery, and helpfulness. It is also defined as a symbol of hope and strength. and is associated with Poseidon, the god of the sea. Width: ± 17,8 mm Height: ± 21,1 mm (including suspension loop) Condition: Good condition, quality intaglio, wearable. The silver mount and suspension loop remain intact. The glass or stone intaglio is well preserved with clear engraved details. Minor wear and patina consistent with age and use. -> Engraved gems (intaglios) were widely used in Roman jewellery and personal accessories. Besides their decorative appeal, many were believed to possess symbolic or protective qualities and were commonly worn as pendants or set in rings. -> In Roman mythology, Eros, known as Cupid, was the god of love and desire, traditionally the son of Venus. While often depicted as a playful winged youth, in earlier Greco-Roman art he could also represent a more powerful cosmic force of attraction. In Roman visual culture, Eros frequently appears on gems and rings, symbolising love, fertility, devotion and sometimes the pleasures of life. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.

Stima:€450

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