Chalcedony scaraboid 500 BC

This chalcedony scaraboid, a small, oval gem engraved with a figure, was created by the Greek artist Epimenes around 500 BC. The piece, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, depicts a crouching figure holding a snake, perhaps representing Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, whose symbol was the serpent. This intricate carving exemplifies the skillful craftsmanship of ancient Greek gem cutters, who utilized various techniques to create detailed imagery on small, precious materials.