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Oval gem with Venus Victrix
Roman
Imperial Period
2nd century A.D.
Medium/Technique
Carnelian
Dimensions
Length: 15 mm (9/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alexander Cochrane
Accession Number18.359
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Gems
DescriptionIntaglio. Slight convex front, flat back with inward back bezel. Venus, seen in three-quarter view from the back, leans on a pillar with her right elbow. She wears a diadem, with her hair pulled back into a bun. She is draped only around her legs; her back is bare. A spear, either in the crook of her elbow or leaning transversely in front of Venus. She gazes down at the crested helmet she holds in her left hand; the helmet has two ribbons or ties fluttering off of it. At bottom left, a shield. Slight chip at bottom, around feet and shield. Very schematic.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: Alexander Cochrane Collection; gift of Alexander Cochrane to MFA, August 1, 1918