A large Roman carnelian intaglio. Leda with the swan, Early 1st century A.D.

18 x 22 x 3 mm

Beautiful depiction of Leda with the swan, inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses. The figure is naked, sitting on the ground, on a drapery, half-reclining and with her elbow resting on a rock covered by the same cloth that she holds in her right hand. The swan approaches, spreading its wings, as a sign of amorous desire. The two figures look at each other. In the background, the letters MAT-PAV, possibly the name of the ancient owner; a crescent moon with a star give this gem a magical-erotic power. Small missing or chipped edges. Wear marks. Fine execution, with traces of small globular elements. Deep red color. Large stone.