Asta Bidspirit | A rare roman amethyst intaglio.

A rare roman amethyst intaglio. Metamorphosis. 1st-2nd Century A.D. 9x12x4 mm A male character, facing left, is depicted in the act of picking a bunch of grapes from the plant. This plant, characterized by leaves and bunches, ends in a gigantic bunch, from which the character surprisingly emerges. Below, a quadruped standing on the plant, presumably a dog or a feline (panther, symbol of Dionysios ?). This unusual  scene is apparently unique, probably referable to the Metamorphoses and the Dionysian context of intoxication and abundance. The stone is characterized by a vivid and luminous color. Very deep carved, despite its small size. Slight signs of wear. Very rare subject. ” U.K. private collection