Seal; Roman Empire, 2nd-3rd century A.D.

Seal; Roman Empire, 2nd-3rd century AD.
Jasper.
Measurements: 26 x 23 cm.

Cabochon seal with lateral Puncture, decorated with a nude figure wearing a cloak, accompanied by a pair of ears of corn and a garland.

Roman seals with human figures and plant motifs combined practical and symbolic functions: they served to authenticate documents or goods, while the iconography conveyed messages of power, fertility, prosperity and connection with classical tradition. The depiction of the nude figure in a cape refers to heroic or divine iconography, while the spikes and garland are recurring symbols of abundance and celebration. Carved in jasper, these seals took advantage of the stone's hardness and intense color to create durable pieces of high symbolic value.