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A Roman Carnelian Cameo of a Boy

Set in a gold pendant

Circa 1st-2nd Century A.D.

Height of pendant 1 3/8 inches (3.49 cm); 18 karat gold; 22.3 dwt.

Property from the Collection of Mr. Felix Brejente, Schaumburg, Illinois

Provenance:

Christie's, New York, Ancient Jewelry, 8 December 1999, Lot 73.

Harlan J. Berk, Ltd., Chicago, where acquired by the present owner, 13 June 2024.

This softly carved cameo depicts a youthful boy turned three-quarters left, his rounded features and curly hair evoking infant divinities like Eros or Dionysus. Ancient authors such as Pliny the Elder (Natural History, Book 37) note that cameos served as personal amulets or status symbols, often believed to possess protective qualities. Carnelian was particularly prized for such purposes due to its rich color and durability.

For similar cameos of youthful figures, see Dumba