/internal/media/dispatcher/1228126/resize%25253Aformat%25253Dthumbnail;jsessionid=A994CCEBD4B4DB14D48504234826A396Oval gem with Augustus as Neptune, mounting a sea-chariot31–27 B.C.Overall: 1.7 x 2.1 cm (5/8 x 13/16 in.)CarnelianBartlett Collection—Museum purchase with funds from the Francis Bartlett Donation of 191227.7330Red-orange carnelian; the top surface is lightly bleached. Intaglio, set in a modern gold ring. The first Roman emperor, Augustus, represented as Neptune, the god of the sea, steps into a chariot drawn by four sea-horses through a turbulent sea. He holds a trident in his right hand while his left hand grasps the reins. The side of the chariot is just visible by his left thigh. Below, a dolphin and young triton (merman) act as escorts. At the top, the gem is inscribed in retrograde in Greek letters ΠΟΠΙΛ ΑΛΒΑΝ (Popil[lius] Alban[us]), which is likely the name of the gem's owner. The bleaching was probably caused by fire.Jewelry / Adornment1.650000000024257401