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Roman intaglio (eagle and cornucopiae)

The central portion of a pale orange-brown cornelain setting remains, the top and bottom having been chipped away; cloudy and without inclusions. To the left a cornucopiae, brimming with fruit; to the right an eagle stands facing back over its shoulder towards the centre, and holding a wreath in its beak. Rising between these two emblems is what may be a trophy. The front is worn and pitted, and contrasts with the rear, which is more highly polished than usual.

This is one of 88 engraved gemstones retrieved in 1979, mostly from the filling of a large drain beneath the cold hall of the fortress baths. The 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. The gems are engraved with a wide range of deities, personification and symbols.

Roman intaglio (eagle and cornucopiae)
Image: © Amgueddfa Cymru - Museum Wales
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Collection Area

Archaeology & Numismatics

Item Number

81.79H/4.80

Find Information

Site Name: Caerleon Fortress Baths, Caerleon

Grid Reference: ST 33 91
Collection Method: excavation
Date: 1978-1979

Notes: from the site of the frigidarium at the baths

Acquisition

Donation, 6/8/1981

Measurements

width / mm:14.0
thickness / mm:3.5

Material

cornelian

Location

Caerleon: Case 13 Gemstones

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