Roman
Goddesses carnelian gold pendant, Roman, circa 1st century AD
Carnelian and Gold
Width of intaglio: 1.5 cm
Length of chain: 18 in (adjustable to 16 in)
Length of chain: 18 in (adjustable to 16 in)
The oval pale orange intaglio depicting two facing standing draped goddesses holding staffs, the figure on the left is probably Aequitas, holding a set of scales in her outstretched left...
The oval pale orange intaglio depicting two facing standing draped goddesses holding staffs, the figure on the left is probably Aequitas, holding a set of scales in her outstretched left hand, on the right, Roma holding the goddess Victoria in front of her. Set in a modern 18 carat gold pendant.
Provenance
European private collection, mid-20th centuryUK private collection
Literature
This Roman carnelian intaglio is not only beautiful, but also offers a fascinating insight into the politics of the period. The figure carved on the left most likely depicts Aequitas, the goddess of justice, equality, and fairness. She is shown standing holding a set of scales, also known as Trutina. The symbolic value of these scales came to retain an association with money and commerce. From the mid-first century AD emperors began minting coins with the goddess Aequitas Augusti, meaning the equity and fairness of the emperor. The personification was to emphasise their intent to administer the monetary system of the Roman empire with impartiality in the interests of the people.The Flavians particularly used this symbolism on their coins, to emphasise the restoration of balance in the Roman economy after the corruption and extravagance of Nero's rule and the civil wars that followed his death. The proposed combination here of Aequitas with Roma and Victoria, the personification of Victory, seems appropriate possibly to commemorate Vespasian's victory and accession as Emperor, thus ending the civil war of AD 69, the Year of the Four Emperors.