A 16th century agate intaglio of Gaius Mucius Scaevola

A 16th century agate intaglio of Gaius Mucius Scaevola

Description

A 16th century Italian agate intaglio depicting Gaius Mucius Scaevola, the oval shaped agate measuring approximately 1.9 x 1.6cm, depicting Scaevola on a standing position with his right hand into a fire, inscribed MILI IM FID and decorated with the symbols of the Sun, the Moon and the Scorpio, mounted in a gold ring in later 19th century, measuring 2.5 x 2.2cm, finger size S, gross weight 9.9 grams.

A bold ring featuring a 16th century agate intaglio and mounted in a yellow gold ring later in the 19th century. The attractive agate intaglio depicts Gaius Mucius Scaevola, a legendary Roman hero who was said to have saved Rome by volunteering to assassinate the Etruscan king Lars Porsena. Unsuccessful, he killed Porsena’s scribe by mistake and was captured. As shown on this intaglio, Scaevola demonstrated his courage by holding his right hand in a blazing altar fire lit for sacrifice which granted him his freedom and brought peace offering to Rome. The name Scaevola means ‘left-handed’, and this daring ring would look magnificent worn on the left hand.