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Antique Carved Carnelian wax seal with Stamped Silver Casing

sallysantiques
11 years ago
AI Appraisal
Description

Carnelian (not amber) piece measures 1-1/2 X 1-3/4, showing a profile of the right side of a face.  Figure is wearing some sort of headdress, with tassels at the back and tied at the forehead. The carnelian is translucent, with decorative markings and what could be letters in the corners.

It is encased in what appears to be sterling silver with stamped images, one of a lion standing alone, and on the opposite end other animals I can't recognize.  I have attached a rough drawing of part of the picture on the back. Some reference has been made to Mithras slaying the bull, with a serpent and a scorpion nearby.  It's hard to make that out, but the legs of the bull are clearly visible.

Category General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium Carnelian and Silver
Distinguishing marks Greco-Roman lettering?
Condition Good
Size and dimensions of this item 1-1/2 X !-3/4 about 1/4-inch thick
Date Period Greco-Roman period
History I bought it from an antique jewelry dealer who has traveled the world and did not now much abut it. Could it be a stamp that was used with sealing wax?
Price Paid (If known) $150.00
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