Carnelian Intaglio Depicting a Standing Maenad, 18th Century CE - 2nd Century CE
Carnelian, Gold
FJ.6524
This intaglio is set in an 18 karat gold ring. On this attractive intaglio a naked young woman is walking to the right on an elevated ground line. Waves of...
This intaglio is set in an 18 karat gold ring.
On this attractive intaglio a naked young woman is walking to the right on an elevated ground line. Waves of gossamer cloth or veils flutter around her, as if the wind is blowing or she is moving quickly. Over her right shoulder she carries a large thyrsus, a staff wreathed in ivy and crowned by a pinecone. This was the symbol of the wine god Dionysus and his female followers (Maenads). Inspired by their god, the Maenads represented the orgiastic forces of nature and were known to roam about the countryside engaging in wild, frenzied dances. Seeing this seductive woman striding across the fiery background, it is no wonder the Maenads have been popular as subjects in art since ancient times.
On this attractive intaglio a naked young woman is walking to the right on an elevated ground line. Waves of gossamer cloth or veils flutter around her, as if the wind is blowing or she is moving quickly. Over her right shoulder she carries a large thyrsus, a staff wreathed in ivy and crowned by a pinecone. This was the symbol of the wine god Dionysus and his female followers (Maenads). Inspired by their god, the Maenads represented the orgiastic forces of nature and were known to roam about the countryside engaging in wild, frenzied dances. Seeing this seductive woman striding across the fiery background, it is no wonder the Maenads have been popular as subjects in art since ancient times.