Ca. 100-300 AD. A lovely carnelian stone intaglio engraved with a goat rearing up a palm tree, set in a gold ring of a thin hoop, slightly expanding to support the bezel. Goats have been symbols of fertility and abundance since ancient times. The Romans saw them also as symbols of luck and good fortune. They were often depicted in religious art, mosaics, jewelry, and in literature. Goats were attributed to the gods of fertility, Bacchus and Faunus. They were also a common motif in the architecture of the Roman Empire, often depicted in friezes and other decorative features. For a similar scene intaglio, see Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales, Item Number 63.228B/3.1. The item has undergone X-ray fluorescence analysis to confirm the metallurgical content suggesting its ancient origin and lack of modern trace elements. This analysis will accompany the purchase.Size: D: 19.31mm / US: 9 3/8 / UK: S 1/2; 8.21gProvenance: Private London collection; British art market 1990s.