An Eastern Roman Gold and Banded Agate Pendant, Early Roman Imperial Period, ca. 1st century BCE - 2nd century CE Household Goods enabling it to be worn

enabling it to be worn or suspended

Medium: yellow jasper

The transition from shaft hole to the blade is modeled as a full-faced lion's head with prominent angular eye ridges and open jaws from which emerge a fan of stylized feathers

at the front and sides of the crown highlights his protective power and authority

An Eastern Roman Gold and Banded Agate Pendant, Early Roman Imperial Period, ca. 1st century BCE - 2nd century CE Household Goods enabling it to be wornThis exquisite jewel, once an ancient earring, has been sensitively adapted for wear as a pendant. Fashioned in high karat gold, it is set with a hand carved, drop shaped cabochon of banded agate, its natural strata of warm brown, cream, and black creating a striking visual effect. The stone is framed by an elaborate openwork mount composed of delicately spiraled gold wirework that forms an intricate, foliate frame, both balanced and elaborate. Below