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Roman intaglio (Alexander the Great)
A flat, oval intaglio with a male bust to right, wearing a Corinthian helmet; probably Alexander the Great.
This was found during the excavation of the amphitheatre in Caerleon, directed by Tessa and Mortimer Wheeler. Gemstones would originally have been set in finger-rings, and served as signets and charms or talismans for their owners. They were products of extremely skilled craftsman who worked on a minute scale without the aid of magnification. Gems are engraved with a wide range of deities, personification and symbols.
Collection Area
Archaeology & Numismatics
Item Number
35.119/2.1
Find Information
Site Name: Caerleon Amphitheatre, Caerleon
Grid Reference: ST 33 91
Collection Method: excavation
Date: 1926-1927
Measurements
length / mm:19
width / mm:15
Categories
Alexander the GreatComments are currently unavailable. We apologise for the inconvenience.