MARKERS OF IDENTITY FOR NON-ELITE ROMANS: A PROLEGOMENON TO THE STUDY OF GLASS PASTE INTAGLIOS
MARKERS OF IDENTITY FOR NON-ELITE ROMANS: A PROLEGOMENON TO THE STUDY OF GLASS PASTE INTAGLIOS

Summary/Abstract: Pliny’s Natural Histories provides evidence that glass paste intaglios were used as signet rings by those without the economic means to acquire precious gem intaglios; this is supported by the abundant survival of such objects. The iconography of these glass pastes provides historical evidence for the self-identification of non-elite Romans and this iconography shows many points of intersection with the republican coin series. In some instances, molds seem to have even been made from coin impressions. This paper uses the comparative evidence of the coinage to illuminate glass paste types known from multiple specimens, especially types intended to convey loyalty to a particular commander or to the Roman state itself. It suggests veterans as one likely group to have purchased and used such glass pastes.

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