A rare and very fine ancient Roman carnelian intaglio of a naked athlete.

The convex gem superbly carved and highly polished to show the athlete, his muscled body glistening with oil, having just thrown a spear or discus.

Circa 1st century BC

Mounted in a late Georgian gold ring, English c.1820

The gem approximately 12mm diameter
general wear to the surface, commensurate with age, chips in the area between the feet

For a similar gem see Hermitage Museum number ГР-21607

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