Roman Onyx Intaglio of Pan

An ancient Roman black onyx gem carved with an intaglio depicting the bald and bearded head of Pan with horns in profile

Ca. 2nd - 3rd century AD.
Length: 10 mm.

Pan was a rustic god of the wild untamed land. His upper body was of human form but his legs were that of a goat as were his horns. He was revered by shepherds and hunters. He was also heavily associated with Music and Theater. His presence was thought to spread fear and calamity, whether it be among stampeding flocks or fear stricken men in battle. The English word Panic is derived from this notion.

Formerly in the M. C. collection, London; subsequently in the R. T. collection, London, 1970s.
Inv#: 7979
Guaranteed Authentic

$1,000

Related Items

Roman Glass Intaglio: Maenad

$1,000

Roman Agate Intaglio of a Deer

$2,750

Roman Carnelian Intaglio

$950

Join our mailing list