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Engraved Gem with Alexander the Great inset Into a Hollow Ring (Impression)

Unknown

The J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum
Los Angeles, United States

Understanding the political importance of the royal portrait, Alexander the Great created a distinctive representation distinguished by his long, flowing, leonine hairstyle. Although he died in 323 B.C., portraits of him remained popular for centuries. The Hellenistic rulers who succeeded Alexander often used these portraits to show their ties to him and to demonstrate the legitimacy of their right to rule.

This gem from the first century B.C. is probably just such an example. The possibility remains, however, that the figure is not Alexander. Some Hellenistic rulers incorporated elements of Alexander's portraits, especially his hairstyle, into their own portraiture.

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  • Title: Engraved Gem with Alexander the Great inset Into a Hollow Ring (Impression)
  • Creator: Unknown
  • Date Created: 1st century B.C.
  • Physical Dimensions: 2.2 × 1.3 × 0.3 cm (7/8 × 1/2 × 1/8 in.)
  • Type: Gem
  • External Link: Find out more about this object on the Museum website.
  • Medium: Gem: cornelian; ring: gold
  • Terms of Use: Open Content
  • Number: 85.AN.124
  • Culture: Roman
  • Credit Line: The J. Paul Getty Museum, Villa Collection, Malibu, California
  • Creator Display Name: Unknown
  • Classification: Jewelry
The J. Paul Getty Museum

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