Seal matrix containing a Roman Jasper Intaglio

Medieval

Museum of Island History

1200-1350

The intaglio is a fine piece of early Roman art which has been reinterpreted in the middle Ages and incorporated into a seal matrix. A high quality intaglio has never been found previously on the Isle of Wight. The gem is cut in the precise classicising style of the 1st century with a depiction of the eternity of the Imperial Victory. A well educated man in the middle Ages would have been aware of the Classical Victory; however he may have interpreted the figure as an angel and the stars as the Heavens glorifying in the birth of the Saviour, Christ.

• Artists Include:
• Roman

• Medium: silver & red jasper
• Dimensions: 2.85 x 2.34cm
• Grant Paid: £800 ( Total: £1,800)
• ArtFunded in: 2007
• Vendor: Department for Culture, Media and Sport

Provenance

Discovered in Arreton by a metal detectorist and declared Treasure in 2006.

Add your comments about this artwork Hide this form

Have your say