The female figure, seated on a rock and depicted in three-quarter view, is identified as Tyche (city goddess) by the mural crown. Over the chiton she wears the mantle falling from the head, exposing the upper part of the body. With her withdrawn hand she is leaning on the rock, in her outstretched hand she is probably holding an attribute downwards. Inscription in front of and behind the upper part of the goddess' body: BEN - IC (neg.). Lower part of the depiction not preserved.
The depiction on the gem probably represents the so-called Tyche of Antioch, which was created by the sculptor Eutychides from Sikyon around 300 BC. It is considered to be the best-known representation of a city goddess, on which many others were modelled. (AVS)
Former August Kestner Collection, Rome
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