Asta Bidspirit | A rare roman italic banded

A rare roman italic banded agate intaglio. Zoomorphic lyre. 1st century B.C. 10 x 13 x 2 mm This elegant musical instrument is composed with a turtle shell for the sound-box and two dolphins as raised arms. On top, a globe. Probably referred to Orpheus lyre, made by Hermes from a turtle shell. It also can be referred to the myth of the lyre-player Arion frequently depicted ridding a dolphin. The intaglio is finely engraved with the typical globular elements and mirror polished. Beautiful variety of stone. Slight wear marks.