A dignitary and Fortuna

Intaglio representing the goddess Fortuna
Prase and 18 carat yellow gold
Roman art, 2nd - 3rd century
H. 1.4 x 1 cm

Dated to the 2nd-3rd century AD, this intaglio depicts the divinity Fortuna. She is engraved standing, her body slightly swaying. Her face is in profile. The goddess carries the cornucopia, symbol of wealth, and at her feet is the rudder with which she regulates destiny. The goddess Fortune is the personification of good or bad luck.

Intaglio representing a portrait
Carnelian and 18 carat yellow gold
Roman art, 2nd - 3rd century
H. 1.4 x 1 cm

This intaglio from the Roman period depicts a bust portrait of a man, most probably a dignitary. The man's face is in profile, his gaze directed to the left. His eyebrows are furrowed and his mouth tight. The man is wearing a laurel wreath, the honorary distinction of a Roman general. In ancient aristocracy, it was common to wear the portrait of an emperor, general or family member.