Mounted in a stunning 18 karat gold ring.

Gem engraving is a miniaturistic art form whereby designs are cut into or on the surface of a gem. Intaglios, gemstones with an incised design below the surface of the gem, were made as early as the fourth and third millennia B.C. In Mesopotamia and the Aegean. However, it was in ancient Greece and Rome that the expressive and aesthetic language of gem engraving was truly born. The classic artisans carried engraving to an artistic level higher than ever seen before, borrowing their diverse themes from epic poetry and famous legends of gods and heroes. In this stunning example, created during the later classical revival period, we see radiant beauty and exceptional craftsmanship displayed in a carnelian intaglio depicting a standing deity. In his upraised left hand he holds a scepter, while his outstretched right hand holds a bunch of palm fronds. Flanking the standing image, we see an ancient altar complete with rising flames and a cornucopia, the horn-of-plenty. Floating artistically in the background of the scene are the images of a star and a crescent moon. Filled with ancient symbolism, this exquisite classical revival intaglio is a work of art that is truly a testament to an age-old tradition, begun thousands of years ago and continuing down through the ages. Framed in a regal gold setting, this classical revival intaglio radiates a dynamic and spirited presence, befitting its ancient heritage.