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Oval gem with a portrait of a beardless man
Roman
Early Imperial Period
late 1st century B.C.
Medium/Technique
Carnelian
Dimensions
Overall: 1.6 cm (5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Bartlett Collection—Museum purchase with funds from the Francis Bartlett Donation of 1912
Accession Number27.730
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Gems
DescriptionRed carnelian. Intaglio, set in modern gold ring. Portrait head of a beardless man, in profile to the left. He has fleshy cheeks and a weary expression. His hair, close-cropped and brushed forward over his forehead, is rendered in short strokes. The gem is inscribed “SOKLA,” which is perhaps an abbreviation of Soklaros. It is likely the name of either the engraver or the owner of the gem.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edward Perry Warren (according to his records: bought in Athens); October 28, 1925: loaned to MFA by Edward Perry Warren (as 577.25); November 17, 1927: purchased for MFA from Edward Perry Warren for
$ 161,000.00 (this figure is the total price for MFA 27.647-27.761)
$ 161,000.00 (this figure is the total price for MFA 27.647-27.761)