Roman Red Jasper Intaglio Depicting a Centaur in Motion This exquisite Roman intaglio, expertly carved from red jasper, portrays a standing centaur with one leg raised in the act of walking, facing left. The detail in the craftsmanship brings this mythical creature to life, capturing both strength and movement in its dynamic posture. In the ancient world, the centaur was a powerful symbol of the dual nature of humanity: the balance between the rational and the wild, the civilized and the untamed. Representing both the power of the human intellect and the primal force of the animal world, centaurs were often viewed as embodiments of the struggle between reason and instinct. While sometimes seen as barbaric, their figure also suggested a deeper connection to the natural world and its raw energies. This striking intaglio, with its meticulous detail and evocative subject, offers a glimpse into the rich symbolism of the ancient world, making it a remarkable piece for any collector of Roman antiquities.