Bidspirit auction | A GREEK RED AGATE SCARAB

A GREEK RED AGATE SCARAB ENGRAVED WITH A FLY, POSSIBLY CIRCA 5TH–4TH CENTURY BC - A finely carved Greek red agate scarab, possibly dating to the 5th–4th century BC, engraved with the image of a fly in intaglio. The insect is rendered with carefully incised wings, segmented body and delicate linear details, reflecting the precision and refinement of Classical Greek gem engraving. The reverse is smoothly domed and polished in the traditional scarab form, with a longitudinal perforation for suspension or mounting. Flies and other insects appear occasionally on Classical Greek gems, valued both for their naturalistic representation and as distinctive personal seal devices. The agate exhibits a rich translucent reddish-orange tone with attractive natural inclusions and a well-preserved ancient polish.