Roman – 2nd – 4th Century AD

Lapis Lazuli

15.60mm

An oval intaglio depicting a large scorpion, with a visibly large tail and stinger. The scorpion, which is a symbol of passion, was depicted as being a venomous and dangerous animal in Greek and Roman mythology. The scorpion, also known as the scorpio in astrology, was transformed into a constellation by Zeus, after it killed Orion under the orders of Apollo.