Art Funded by you

Intaglio of Isis and Serapis

Unknown artist, 50 BC–AD 50 (intaglio); 1700–1750 (ring)

This gem has been carved with busts of the Egyptian deities Isis and Serapis facing each other. Isis wears a disc, horn and feather crown, and holds the rattle used in her cult. Serapis wears the modius (corn measure) expressing his role as guarantor of the fertility of Egypt. The cutting is extremely expert, and the hair, drapery and divine attributes are all executed with immense skill. The gem reflects Roman interest in Egyptian cults. The Ashmolean has a very fine collection of Greek and Roman engraved gems but this is the first example with confronted pairs of deities to enter the collection. The stone was mounted in a gold ring at a much later date.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Intaglio of Isis and Serapis, 50 BC–AD 50 (intaglio); 1700–1750 (ring)

Date supported

2009

Medium and material

Carnelian; gold

Dimensions

Intaglio diameter: 2.2 cm

Grant

3000

Total cost

7500

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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