Haematite gem: Rider spearing evil (A) σφραγὶς θεοῦ (B)

PP-ID:

PP-4306

Classification:

gem, magical

Collection ID:

DE-München-Münzsammlung_2913

Collection:

München, Staatliche Münzsammlung

Collection Inventory:

2913 (A. 2349)

Reference Numbers:

Michel, DMG, no. 44.1.b_18; CBd, no. 4306; Franek, SoMa, no. 37

Former Collections:

Rhoussopoulos, Athanasios (Athens) 1823–1898

Material:

haematite (black)

Dimensions:

36.2 × 24.1 × 5.9 mm

Iconography:

Solomon; rider spearing the evil; tunic; mantle; spear; horse; star; Lilith; lying posture; defensive gesture

Divine Names & Voces:

Σολομών

Provenience:

Termessos (Lykia)

Dark gray haematite gem; upright oval, both faces flat. (Shape 8–9). Upper part chipped.
From Termessos (Lykia); previously in the Rhoussopoulos Collection, Athens.

Side A: Solomon on horseback, wearing tunic and mantle, spearing a female demon prostrate on the ground, raising her hands in defense. Remains of a Greek inscription around the scene: σολ[---]ν → Σολομών. Star in front of the rider's head.
Side B: Four lines of Greek inscription: σφρ|αγι|σθε|ου → σφραγὶς θεοῦ 'Seal of God.'

Selected bibliography
• Brandt, AGD I >>, no. 2913.
• Franek 2025 >>, no. 37.