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magical gem
;
intaglio
Object Type
magical gem
intaglio
Museum number
1986,0501.53
Description
Magical gem; intaglio; haematite; incomplete; bevelled edge on side B. Side A: Reaper with bent back, cutting grain with a sickle. He wears a loincloth and a conical cap, upper body nude. Behind him, on the left, a tree. On the right, three branches; in front, two cut and two uncut stalks; reaper holds one of the uncut stalks with his left hand whilst he cuts with a sickle in his right. Side B: Inscription in two lines
Cultures/periods
Late Roman
Production date
4thC
Production place
Made in:
Mediterranean
(eastern Mediterranean)
Materials
hematite
Technique
engraved
Dimensions
Height:
26.50 millimetres
Thickness:
4 millimetres
Width:
16.50 millimetres
$Inscriptions
Bibliographic references
Michel 2001 / Die Magischen Gemmen im Britischen Museum
(429)
CBd / The Campbell Bonner Magical Gems Database Online
(787)
(http://classics.mfab.hu/talismans/cbd/787)
Location
Not on display
Condition
Incomplete. Sides are worn.
Subjects
farmer/farm worker
tree/bush
Acquisition name
Purchased from:
Jack Ogden Ltd
Acquisition date
1986
Department
Britain, Europe and Prehistory
Registration number
1986,0501.53