A rare greek classical rock crystal scaraboid engraved seal set in a gold seal. Wasp on a flower.

A rare greek classical rock crystal scaraboid engraved seal set in a gold seal. Wasp on a flower.

5th - 4th century B.C.

Stone 15x20x8 mm; High with seal 33 mm; 6,36 gr.

A wasp flies to the left; below a flower, identifiable with a rose. Rare scene characterized by great naturalism and engraving mastery, typically classical Greek. The details of the insect and the flower are engraved with great refinement, very fine lines or small globules. Signs of wear and small chips. Through hole. The scarab is mounted in a swivel and chiseled collector's gold seal, dating from the 19th century. Of great rarity. Parallel: J. Boardman, GGFR, n. 505 for the insect; n. 703, 783 for the flower, a rose, engraved in a silver seal ring (see also the greek coinage). For a similar composition, but later, see AGKM (Kunst, Wien), vol. II, n. 903, and the Cornell University plaster database, n. 185.

Provenance: english private collection S.B., London, acquired on the London art market in 1969.