Lot 2808
An Interesting Pendant/Charm of Grotesque Head. Roman, 1st-2nd century AD. Carved from a narrow, slightly curved piece of creme-tan limestone or calcite, the pendant caricatures a man's profile. The head small and bald, the eyes squinty and frowning, the bony jaw with a twisted and sniveling mouth. All this, plus the dominating prow of a nose. The top of the head pierced to hold a gold cap and loop. The nose and ear also pierced, and which may have held further pendants or dangling rings. Limestone shows moderate wear to the highpoints, but overall the pendant is well preserved. Height: 1-1/4". A fascinating and unusual miniature. Said to have been found in Egypt.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
The grotesque, an extremely popular theme among cosmopolitan Alexandrians, was thought to be an effective charm against the evil eye.
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