1326 - Roman Gemstone with Minerva. 2nd century A.D. Plano-convex in section with incuse image of Minerva standing with one hand extended, holding her spear and shield. Cf., Cravinho, G., Roman Gems in the National Soares dos Reis Museum in Oporto, in Studies in ancient Art and Civilization, vol.22 (2018), pp.141-179, pls.I, 7-8, gems with Athena Promachos and Minerva. 1.18 grams, 17 mm (5/8 in.).

Roman Gemstone with Minerva. 2nd century A.D. Plano-convex in section with incuse image of Minerva standing with one hand extended, holding her spear and shield. Cf., Cravinho, G., Roman Gems in the National Soares dos Reis Museum in Oporto, in Studies in ancient Art and Civilization, vol.22 (2018), pp.141-179, pls.I, 7-8, gems with Athena Promachos and Minerva. 1.18 grams, 17 mm (5/8 in.). Acquired 1970s-1996. Property of a North American collector. London collection, 2016. In Rome, the Athena Promachos type occurs on imperial silver medallions of Domitian (struck in 92 AD), since Minerva was his personal protector. On gems, it became very common from the end of the 1st century BC onwards, even on the magical gemstones. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.