A fine late hellenistic carnelian intaglio. Bust of Nereid.

1st century B.C.

12,5 x 16 x 3 mm

The young figure is turned to the left, and is characterized by a slightly open mouth, rounded chin, long and thick hair as moved by the wind, with strong inspiration from the Hellenistic models. The face, facing in profile, is characterized by delicate features finely engraved and mirror polished. The left shoulder is seen from behind, as in the typical movement of swimming. The figure is variously interpreted as Nereid or as Leandro crossing the Dardanelles to reach the lover Eros. By some the subject is interpreted as a marine divinity or Selene. The figure expresses beauty and elegance and shows a particularly refined execution. Attractive color of the stone. Slight wear marks. Missing on the edge.

Parallels: A. Giuliano, I cammei dalla Collezione Medicea del Museo Archeologico di Firenze, pp. 216-217; L. P. B. Stefanelli, La collezione Paoletti, vol. 1, tomo 2 n. 218, tomo 3 n. 480; Le Gemme Farnese, 1994, p. 122 n. 184 (225); G.M. A. Richter, Engraved gems. Greek, Etruscan and Roman, The Metropolitan Museum of New York, n. 150; J. Boardman, Greek gems and finger rings, n. 1003.

U.K private collection 80's.