A fine neoclassical Poniatowski carnelian intaglio signed Arogillos, set in a gold frame. Allegory of the universal power of Zeus.

19th century.

Stone 24 x 31 mm; mounting 26 x 34 mm; 7, 35 gr.

This gem is not listed in the Beazley Archive inventory of the Poniatowski gems. But, interestingly, there is only one with the inscription ΑΡΟΓΙΛΛΟΣ (ref. Christie’s, London: 1839-293 = Catalogue des pierres gravées antiques de S.A. le Prince Stanislas Poniatowski ([1830?]-1833): II.155): a carnelian intaglio described as “Nemesis receiving from Jupiter the Laws of the Universe”. Might it be that the 19^th century catalogue misdescribed this gem? In the intaglio depicting the allegory of the universal power of Zeus, the divinity is seated on a flying eagle, with open wings: the animal holds lightning in its claws. Zeus is depicted frontally, with his head in profile to the right, while the eagle looks to the left; the god holds a scepter. On the sides, allegorical symbols of his universal power and law: A ship’s prow with rudder (sea); a panoply-type military emblema consisting of a shield, spear, sword and helmet (earth); The sky is symbolized by its epiphany on the eagle with lightning. Below, the signature in Greek. The gem is set in a 19^th century gold mounting.

Provenance: Uk private collection, London. Probably from the Poniatowski collection.