Ancient Roman Black serpentine Intaglio - 15 mm
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Current bid
€ 185
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Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 230 - € 280
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 Bidder 9350 | €185 | |
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Ancient Roman intaglio in black serpentine, titled Dying Galatian, depicting a Galatian warrior in an introspective defeat, measuring 15 × 20 × 7 mm and dated to the 1st–2nd century AD.
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Description from the seller
Roman Intaglio in Black Serpentine – Dying Galatian
Imperial Period, 1st–2nd century AD
Fine Roman intaglio engraved in black serpentine, depicting the celebrated Dying Galatian (Galata morente), one of the most iconic subjects inherited from Hellenistic art.
The scene shows the defeated Galatian warrior in a dramatic, introspective pose, rendered with remarkable sensitivity despite the small scale. The composition reflects the Roman admiration for Greek models, emphasizing dignity in defeat and emotional realism. This subject was widely admired in Roman culture as a symbol of virtus and noble courage, even in the fallen enemy.
The engraving is finely executed, with careful attention to anatomical details and a balanced use of the dark stone surface, which enhances the depth and contrast of the carving. Intaglios of this type were typically mounted in rings and used as personal seals or status objects by members of the Roman elite.
Material: Black serpentine
Technique: Intaglio (engraved gem)
Subject: Dying Galatian (Galata morente)
Period: Roman Imperial, 1st–2nd century AD
Dimensions:
15 × 20 × 7 mm
Condition:
Good condition for its age, with natural wear consistent with ancient use and burial. The engraving remains clearly legible and visually strong.
A refined and evocative example of Roman glyptic art, appealing to collectors of ancient gems, Roman art, and classical iconography.
Roman Intaglio in Black Serpentine – Dying Galatian
Imperial Period, 1st–2nd century AD
Fine Roman intaglio engraved in black serpentine, depicting the celebrated Dying Galatian (Galata morente), one of the most iconic subjects inherited from Hellenistic art.
The scene shows the defeated Galatian warrior in a dramatic, introspective pose, rendered with remarkable sensitivity despite the small scale. The composition reflects the Roman admiration for Greek models, emphasizing dignity in defeat and emotional realism. This subject was widely admired in Roman culture as a symbol of virtus and noble courage, even in the fallen enemy.
The engraving is finely executed, with careful attention to anatomical details and a balanced use of the dark stone surface, which enhances the depth and contrast of the carving. Intaglios of this type were typically mounted in rings and used as personal seals or status objects by members of the Roman elite.
Material: Black serpentine
Technique: Intaglio (engraved gem)
Subject: Dying Galatian (Galata morente)
Period: Roman Imperial, 1st–2nd century AD
Dimensions:
15 × 20 × 7 mm
Condition:
Good condition for its age, with natural wear consistent with ancient use and burial. The engraving remains clearly legible and visually strong.
A refined and evocative example of Roman glyptic art, appealing to collectors of ancient gems, Roman art, and classical iconography.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman
Century/ Timeframe
I - II century A.D.
Name of object
Intaglio
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
1990
Material
Black serpentine
Country acquired from
United Kingdom
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Height
15 mm
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Width
20 mm
Previous owner - country acquired from
United Kingdom
Depth
7 mm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
