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Roman Carnelian Intaglio of a BullAn ancient Roman carnelian gem carved with an intaglio image of a bull preparing to charge. Ca. 2nd - 3rd century AD. The bull was revered in ancient cultures as a symbol of strength and virility. Prized bulls were treated as sacred in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Particularly robust bulls were offered as sacrifices to the Gods in Greek and Roman society. The Taurobolium was an especially important Roman holiday in which a revered bull was sacrificed. cf.:British Museum, London, museum no. 1923,0401.916. Formerly in the B. G. collection, Surrey, United Kingdom; subsequently in the R. A. collection, London. Inv#: 7795 $750 |
